Turn on the television and you will see channel after channel reporting on the economy - issue #1. Much is mentioned about families losing their homes, jobs, and in some cases their only means of transportation. Gas prices and the cost of food have skyrocketed – positioning some families to make life changing decisions.

In many cases, families are one paycheck away from being homeless. It is likely that we each know of someone who has been impacted by the continual decline in our economy. It is reported that consumer confidence is at an all-time low. We hear a variety of reasons for the cause and affect of what is going on in the world around us. As students, it is often the case that we take the views of our parents or other adults who have an influence in our life. But, have you stopped to ask "what is the economy?" or “how has such a national problem, affected my home?” There is a better question to ask, “what can I do to prevent this from happening to me when I get older?”

As a student, what is an issue to our parents is often overlooked and our parents concerns are often not understood. Hearing a parent so “no” to a personal “want” can be hard to swallow and when it affect us as students, your parents issue will most certainly become your issue.

Accept the challenge of taking an active role in positively impacting your family by recognizing a need versus a want, assist with minimizing cost on household expenses by simply turning off the lights when not in use, not letting the water run while brushing your teeth, help with the lawn without requesting money for your service, using your allowances wisely by saving for long-term goals instead of spending quickly on short-term pleasures. Grasp your own understanding of the economy and how it works and make a life-changing decision to positively impact your world.