As a financial advisor, I talk about markets, portfolios, and retirement planning nearly every day. But every once in a while, life hands you a moment that brings everything back to the basics—the “why” behind what we do. For me, one of those moments came when my daughter, Molly, a 7th grader at Bridgeport Middle School, won the InvestWrite statewide essay competition.
The contest was the culminating project of the Stock Market Game—a national program that helps students explore the fundamentals of investing through simulated trading. Molly’s essay focused on diversification and how her class built their portfolio throughout the semester. She talked about valuation metrics, reading charts, and making long-term decisions based on market trends. It was insightful, articulate, and packed with concepts that many adults don’t fully grasp.
I was - and still am - blown away.
A Moment of Pride, and a Wake-Up Call
There’s a special kind of pride that comes from seeing your child succeed in something you’re passionate about. But beyond that initial wave of excitement, Molly’s win really made me pause and think.
What if more kids had access to this kind of education?
What if we made financial literacy a foundational part of how we prepare the next generation for adulthood?
The truth is, we often wait until young adults are already navigating student loans, their first job, or their first credit card before we talk to them about money. By then, they’re playing catch-up. But when you expose kids early, through programs like the Stock Market Game or conversations at the dinner table, they start building habits and confidence that last a lifetime.
Why It Matters
We live in a time where financial decisions are more complex than ever. From student debt to inflation, rising home prices to digital investing platforms, the financial landscape is evolving fast. Helping our kids understand how money works isn’t just nice - it’s necessary.
As a financial advisor, I spend a lot of time untangling financial stress and helping clients rebuild from past mistakes. Imagine how much better off we’d all be if more people entered adulthood already armed with the basics - budgeting, investing, debt management, and saving for the future.
Molly’s essay was a reminder that kids are capable of understanding more than we think - especially when they’re given the tools and support to learn.
The Role We All Play
This experience has reaffirmed my belief that financial education needs to be a community effort. Parents, schools, and local leaders - we all have a role in helping the next generation build smart financial foundations.
That’s why I stay involved with local schools—not just as a dad, but as a member of this community who wants to give back. Whether it's grilling burgers for Teacher Appreciation Week, coaching youth sports or volunteering time in a classroom, it's all connected. The more we support our educators and give our kids real-world learning opportunities, the stronger our communities become.
A Note to Molly - and to Other Young Investors
To my daughter: I’m so proud of you. Your curiosity, work ethic, and willingness to learn are already taking you places. Keep asking questions, keep thinking critically, and don’t be afraid to take bold but informed steps.
To other students and parents reading this: Financial literacy isn’t reserved for adults in suits. It starts with simple conversations and grows from there. Let’s make sure our kids don’t just inherit our money - they inherit the wisdom to manage it well.
Closing Thought
In a world full of uncertainty, financial knowledge is one of the greatest gifts we can give the next generation. Molly’s win was more than just a contest—it was a glimpse into a brighter, more financially confident future.