Money Matters

As students, thinking about how you handle your money is likely at the bottom of a very long list of responsibilities. In today’s world, with growing generational wealth inequality, financial literacy is a powerful tool that can change lives. Personal finance is not just about managing your money; it’s about gaining peace of mind knowing that you have the skills needed to make financial decisions with confidence.

Demystifying Money

Let’s face it: most people don’t learn or talk about money. The Conway Center aims to change that. Addressing a crucial gap in our education, these workshops aren’t just about learning to build a secure financial future; they’re about making money conversations comfortable and safe for everyone. We will help you gain practical insights into managing your finances, explore how your money mindset shapes your financial choices, and master the art of making thoughtful money decisions. Instructor: former Smith mathematics professor Daniel Schultheis.

Schedules

All sessions are held on Fridays from 12:15 to 1:15 p.m. in the Conway Classroom (Neilson 103). Lunch is provided, space is limited to 40 people, and sign-up via the Smith Social Network is strongly encouraged.

September 19

Know Your Money Through Budgeting

Every journey, even a financial journey, needs a starting point. In this workshop we’ll talk about some common places to begin, addressing how to formulate a realistic budget and how to take stock of your current financial situation. All are welcome, regardless of how much thought you've given to your financial future.

September 26

Personal Finance and Psychology

This workshop will focus on the ways our individual backgrounds can impact our relationship with money. We’ll explore how knowing what motivates you can be reflected in the ways you handle debt and credit. This session cannot cover everything, but hopefully you’ll begin to realize that personal finance is just that “personal,” we are not just automatons trying to automate/maximize our finances.

October 3

Banking, Interest, and Loans

Interest and how to navigate it informs a lot of our adult socioeconomic experiences. In this session, we will explore all things banks, interest (the kind you get and the kind you pay) and loans.

October 17

Credit Cards and Credit Scores

Nothing says adulting more than getting your first credit card and wisely handling spending and payments. Learn the economic factors that impact your credit and credit score and tips for staying on top of this potentially costly type of debt.

October 24

Taxes

Everyone pays some form of tax—sales, excise, property, etc. In this session, we’ll explore one specific type of tax: federal income tax in the United States. You’ll learn all about the basics, some of the most common tax misconceptions, and how pre-tax and post-tax deductions impact your paycheck.

October 31

Making Money Decisions

In this session, we’ll talk about general approaches to making financial decisions, such as how to do a simple cost-benefit analysis. We’ll also discuss things that are more personal, such as determining your own risk comfort level with investments. Within this general framework, we’ll talk about conscious spending, insurance, and how to determine when buying quality will save money in the long term.

February 6

Investment vs. Speculation

Investments always carry risk, so what separates an investment from gambling or random chance? We’ll set the record straight and build a solid foundation for our investing conversations throughout the spring.

February 13

Stocks and Bonds

Stocks and bonds are not the only investments, but they’re widely available and relatively simple to understand. Even if these aren’t your investments of choice, discussing stocks and bonds will help build the language to learn about other investments.

February 20

Costs and Risks

There are many ways to invest. Understanding the types of risk and your personal risk tolerance can help you find a style of investing that works for you. And understanding costs means that you can hang on to more of your investment returns.

February 27

Saving for Retirement, Part I

Retirement might seem impossibly far away, but the benefits of planning early cannot be overstated. We’ll talk about the importance of taxes and all of the nitty gritty about different types of retirement accounts.

March 6

Saving for Retirement, Part II

March 27

Investing with Purpose

Investing is not a one-size-fits-all system. This workshop will focus on investing goals other than retirement, and how non-financial priorities can impact your plans and decisions.

Student Spotlight

Emy Collins AC ’25

Major: Africana Studies

“As a non-traditional college student, single mother, and woman of color, I joined Money Mentors to better understand how to become financially healthy after a lifetime shaped by poverty. The training supported my transition from Smith to a teaching career in Austin, where I’ll serve majority low-income students of color. I’m grateful for the tools I’ve gained to build financial stability and to help the next generation do the same.”

Money Mentors

Smith’s Financial Literacy Empowerment Fellows—Money Mentors—are trained in the basics of personal finance (budgeting, saving, debt management, and wealth building) and develop skills to help your peers to take steps on their personal finance journey confidently.

What We Offer

Individual appointments with trained peer financial coaches
Assistance with identifying, setting, and making a plan to achieve your goals
Tools for budgeting and SMART money management

What You Can Expect

to be treated with respect
to keep all conversations confidential
to be listened to without judgment
to be provided guidance, not advice
to receive a response to email inquiries within 48 hours

Each fall, Fellows receive training on personal finance topics and learn techniques to become successful peer coaches. Each spring, Fellows serve as Money Mentors to the campus by leading workshops, hosting events, and offering 1:1 guidance as requested.

Compensation

Trainees receive a $500 stipend at the end of the fall semester. Fellows who successfully complete training are hired as Money Mentors.

Eligibility

Open to all currently enrolled students in good standing. Must be on campus for the entire academic year. Students graduating before May in their graduation year are not eligible. Preference is given to students who have attended at least one personal finance workshop offered by the Conway Center.

How to Apply

Applications are not currently being accepted.

Current Mentors

Meet with a trained peer financial coach at Smith by making an appointment today.

Sabina Ali ’27

Quantitative Economics and Statistical & Data Sciences major

Hi! I’m a senior at Smith and excited to continue as a Money Mentor this year. Growing up in Ethiopia and later navigating college in the U.S. has made me interested in how people learn to manage money and make financial decisions. I enjoy making financial topics feel more approachable and creating a comfortable, judgment-free space to ask questions. Whether you have a specific financial goal or just want to talk something through, please feel free to reach out. I’m always happy to chat!

Maame Amoah ’28

Quantitative Economics major

As an international student who came to the U.S. at the age of 16, Maame often heard about financial tools she needed but never received clear, in-depth explanations. She understood these tools were important for her long-term financial security goal, yet she struggled to find guidance and a place to begin. Motivated by her own experience and financial knowledge gained over time, she now aims to guide all in finding the information needed to achieve their financial goals while creating a friendly and welcoming space.

Jameson Brannon ’28

Economics and Spanish major

Away Spring 2027
Jameson, a junior from Dallas, Texas, is looking forward to continuing her work as a money mentor. After spending her past years working to become financially independent, she is thrilled to be a part of strengthening financial literacy around campus. Dedicated to creating a welcoming space for financial vulnerability, she takes care to ensure that her mentees feel comfortable throughout the interaction and can leave with their questions and concerns addressed.

Faithrose Daniel ’27

Statistical & Data Sciences major; Government minor; Collaborative Innovation concentrator

Hi! I’m Daniels, and I’m studying statistical and data aciences and government, with a concentration in collaborative innovation. I became a Money Mentor because I think money is one of those things we’re all expected to magically know how to manage, even though most of us were never actually taught how. I love making conversations about money feel less intimidating and much more practical, whether that’s figuring out a budget, understanding credit, saving for something exciting, or simply answering the financial questions you’ve been too scared to ask. I’m especially interested in the way finance, data, policy, and entrepreneurship can come together to create opportunities for people and communities. Outside of Money Mentors, you’ll probably find me planning my next trip (I love love travelling and experiencing new cultures), trying a new restaurant, getting overly competitive about a game, or convincing myself that buying something is okay because “it was on sale.” My biggest Money Mentor philosophy? Simple: give yourself grace, stay curious, and make choices that future you will thank you for!

Sophia Dube ’27

Molecular Biosciences and Anthropology major

Sophia is a senior who was raised in Portland, OR, by immigrant parents. After hearing about her parents’ struggles to adapt to the complexities of US financial systems, she made it her mission to educate herself on personal finance. Getting a credit card and starting investment accounts such as Roth IRAs and brokerage at 18 were just the tip of the iceberg for her, and becoming a money mentor has built a knowledge base where she is confident to help others. She’s excited to lead workshops and offer one-on-one sessions to help students feel more comfortable managing their financial health!

Camryn Hoffman ’28

Biochemistry major; Spanish minor

Away Spring 2027
Camryn, a junior from rural Vermont, has long been interested in financial wellness, and is ready to help fellow Smithies feel confident along their financial journeys. She has experience with credit and credit cards, IRAs, high-yield savings accounts, basic investing, and more. She understands how daunting it can be to tackle personal finances without familial support, and wants to ensure you feel comfortable and empowered to reach out for support when you need it. We’re here to help!

Isabella Lee-Baldassini ’27

Government and Study of Women, Gender & Sexuality major

I am a senior pursuing a degree in government and SWGS here at Smith. I have explored a long-held interest in women’s rights and advocacy in my studies, and I believe that everyone should have a chance at success with their finances. In my time with my fellow Money Mentors, I have come to understand how I can best create financial stability for the life I aspire to, and I hope to continue to share this knowledge to empower anyone I can! There isn’t a “one size fits all” to financial literacy and money, so I hope this can empower others to create their own financial goals.

Maggie McCaffrey ’28

Biochemistry major on a pre-med track

Maggie is a junior from Portland, OR, studying biochemistry on a pre-med track. She was introduced to financial literacy topics during COVID by an organization led by college students (Females for Finance). That knowledge propelled her confidence around money. Now, she is proud to be in a position similar to that of those students. She is excited to help her peers gain independence and security through financial literacy.

Veronique Merker ’27

Quantitative Economics and Government major

Now a senior at Smith, I’m in my third year as a Money Mentor and have spent the last two years learning about personal finance, from budgeting and saving to credit, loans, and taxes. There’s a lot of information about personal finance out there, and most of it isn’t written with students in mind. I’m here to help you navigate these topics and connect you with reliable information and resources so you can make informed decisions that make sense for you and your financial goals.

Other Ways to Learn

You can now examine the political and cultural factors at play in global markets and gain an understanding of how personal investment portfolios can have significant environmental, social, and governmental impacts.

The Conway Center is the institutional home for the Global Finance Concentration, which exposes students to the workings of global financial markets, their key institutional features, and the theoretical underpinnings of their design.

The Gateway

GFX 100 Introduction to Global Financial Institutions

Smith faculty, alumnae industry professionals and scholars in the field provide an overview of the financial system and the role of financial institutions in the global economy; domestic and international regulation; domestic and international banking. Offered each Fall; 1 credit; S/U only.

Required Elective

ACC 223 Financial Accounting

The course, while using traditional accounting techniques and methodology, focuses on the needs of external users of financial information. The emphasis is on learning how to read, interpret and analyze financial information as a tool to guide investment decisions. Concepts rather than procedures are stressed and class time will be largely devoted to problem solutions and case discussions. A basic knowledge of arithmetic and a familiarity with a spreadsheet program is suggested. 4 credits; not more than four credits in accounting may be counted toward the degree.

Bloomberg Terminal Certifications

As a student entering a rapidly changing economy and geo-political climate, you need every edge you can get. Knowledge of and experience using the Bloomberg Terminal is that edge.

Bloomberg is a terminal-bound financial services platform that provides analysis and quotes for equities (stocks) and indices, global company and economic data, real-time and historical industry and market news, and advanced analytical and data functions. It is the standard in the financial services industry.

Bloomberg Finance Fundamentals (BFF) is a self-paced, interactive e-learning course that provides an introduction to the key concepts involved in finance and investment. Throughout the course, you’ll explore real-life scenarios through the perspectives of various professionals, helping you to manage your money and build an understanding of the different careers available across the finance sector. It takes approximately 10 hours to complete.

Bloomberg Market Concepts (BMC), also known as Bloomberg Certification, is a self-paced e-learning course that provides a visual introduction to financial markets and the core functionality of the Bloomberg terminal. It takes approximately eight hours to complete.

The Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Certificate offers insights for weaving ESG considerations into business and investment strategies. Delve into the foundational elements of ESG, understand the influence of shareholder activism on corporate practices, navigate ESG management across various corporate life stages, and master the essentials of ESG reporting for companies committed to these fundamental values. It takes approximately 12 hours to complete.

Reserve the Terminal

1:1 with a Bloomberg Coach

Important Note: Since there is only one Bloomberg Terminal, we ask that students use it only during your scheduled time.

Financing Life

In this course, the Conway Center presents an accessible and informative set of topics, videos, and activities to help you improve your financial literacy. The course is taught by Smith College Economics professor emeritus Randall Bartlett. With his eloquent storytelling prowess, Bartlett demystifies financial topics ranging from the time value of money to taxable income, and helps you gain a firm conceptual understanding of personal finance. A strong foundation in financial literacy will empower you to ask the right questions when managing your own financial affairs throughout your life.

Financing life course

Smith College Consulting Club (SCCC)
Smith College Consulting Club prepares students for consulting careers across various sectors, from healthcare to technology to non-profit to finance. All majors and experience levels are welcome! Consultants, like doctors of the business world, assist organizations by diagnosing management and business problems, identifying opportunities, and implementing transformative changes. Our members gain experience and practice problem-solving and creativity through collaboration and networking sessions. This year, we're excited to have case workshops, employer information sessions, alumni panels, and case competitions! Interested? Follow our Instagram @scconsultingclub, connect on LinkedIn (Smith College Consulting Club), or email consultingclub@smith.edu. General board meetings are biweekly on Wednesdays at 6 p.m.
Smith College Investment Club (SCIC)
The Smith College Investment Club offers students a hands-on way to learn about finance and investing. Through weekly meetings, industry research, and managing a real investment portfolio, members build practical skills in financial analysis, market research, and decision-making. The club also provides opportunities for leadership, collaboration, and teaching, with roles like sector heads and educational session leaders. Open to all Smith College students, the Investment Club welcomes all experience levels and aims to create an inclusive, engaging space for exploring the markets and preparing for future careers in finance, business, and related fields.
Smithies in Business (SIB)
Smithies in Business (SIB) is a club dedicated to promoting the social, cultural, personal, and professional development of Smith College undergraduates interested in all areas of business—from finance and consulting to marketing, entrepreneurship, and more. SIB offers alumni panels and opportunities to network, business-related certification events, and workshops on resume and LinkedIn building. Whether you're curious about business or already building your career path, all majors and experience levels are welcome to explore opportunities within the Smith network! Interested? Follow our Instagram @smithiesinbusiness or connect on LinkedIn (Smithies In Business) to stay updated on our upcoming events!