Enhancing Financial Literacy and Wellness at the University of North Carolina: An Interview with Gilbert Rogers

Are you a college student worried about finances? You’re not alone. Across the nation, learners like yourself are grappling with the high costs of postsecondary education and the elevated costs of living. But fear not, because at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, there is someone dedicated to helping ease your financial stress.

Meet Gilbert Rogers, the inaugural director of financial well-being at UNC. In a recent interview with Inside Higher Ed, Rogers shared insights on his role, the importance of financial literacy, and practical applications for students.

Rogers’ journey to a career in higher education started as an undergraduate student. He realized the lack of exposure to personal finance topics and made a promise to pay it forward by sharing his knowledge with others. This commitment led him to UNC, where he now leads the financial well-being program.

At UNC, financial well-being is approached from two angles: financial education and meeting students’ basic needs. By educating students on personal finance fundamentals and ensuring their needs are met, the university is taking a holistic approach to supporting student success.

So, what does financial wellness mean, and how does it tie into student success? Rogers defines financial wellness as the ability to understand and apply basic financial concepts to real-world situations. By eliminating financial barriers and educating students on smart money decisions, UNC contributes to students’ overall success.

But where do students struggle with financial literacy? Rogers identifies gaps in budgeting, investing, and managing student loan debt. To address these challenges, UNC is implementing peer financial coaching, interactive workshops, and tailored programs for different student groups.

Rogers’ goals for his first year at UNC include increasing awareness of financial education opportunities and building a peer-to-peer component to spread financial literacy across campus. With initiatives like the financial literacy symposium and peer coaching, UNC is actively working to empower students with the knowledge and skills they need to navigate their financial futures.

So, if you’re feeling overwhelmed by financial worries, know that help is available. UNC is committed to supporting your financial well-being and paving the way for your success. Stay tuned for more updates on the innovative initiatives happening at UNC to promote financial literacy and student success.