Public Speaking
From 18 with no money to $350,000 by 23, I now return to my high school to inspire students to take control of their future.
Project Name:
Public Speaking
Date Started:
5/9/2025
From Student to Guest Speaker
Personal Finance classes did not exist at my high school when I was a student. At 18, I taught myself everything I know about personal finance by watching YouTube videos, learning about saving, investing, and building wealth from scratch. After graduating, moving to Seattle, and starting my career, I eventually returned to Arlington, VA, with early success under my belt and a strong desire to give back to a younger version of myself.
By chance, I reconnected with a former teacher of mine, Mr. Haardt, who asked me to come speak to his Money and Finance class—a class my younger sister had taken in her last year of high school. Since then, I’ve returned three times, each visit aligning with trips home to see my parents. I share my journey of going from 18 with no money to building a net worth of over $350,000 by age 23, emphasizing the power of delayed gratification and intentional decision-making.
These sessions are always engaging, with students asking thoughtful questions and leaving motivated to take control of their futures. For me, it’s one of the most fulfilling and reflective things I do. Mr. Haardt has even said that in his 30 years of teaching, I am the best guest speaker he’s ever had—a humbling reminder of the impact I can make by sharing my story.
