Financial lessons in the classroom

TURNERS FALLS, Mass. (WWLP) - Seniors at Franklin County Technical High School had a taste of the "real world" on Friday, as representatives from the Freedom Credit Union came in to talk with them about how to make good financial decisions.

"It's an opportunity for students to see a different light, and not the teacher in me just telling them, because it's my job to tell them. They actually get a different perspective", said business teacher Raye Young.

Students learned the process of how to get a car loan, how to apply for it, shop around for the very best rates, how to determine their credit scores and what the importance is of actually having good credit.

"It helped me really see how the world is, and how I'm going to need the credit score....and it really opens your eyes", said FCTHS senior, Vicky Murray of Amherst.

"These kids are actually getting it; and if you get through to these students about something that's so critically important as credit. It's going to make a difference in their lives:, said Edward Nunez of Freedom Credit Union.

This local credit union is visiting with students across western Massachusetts, all in an effort to educate them on these financial concepts. The hope is these future leaders will walk away more confidently when it comes to making their own decisions.