Lessons OLS Bellevue College (OLSBC) students learn in the OLSBC Personal Finance course and budgeting for an apartment are closely interconnected. OLSBC students visited the Edgewood Park Apartments in Bellevue and learned that finding an apartment involves thoughtful planning, research and asking the right questions.
Here are a few tips our students gained that will help empower them to make informed financial decisions post-graduation.
- Having essential knowledge about managing money, understanding credit, investing, and creating budgets helps students become better prepared to handle financial decisions related to renting an apartment.
- Budgeting is crucial when searching for an apartment. Students are learning about the 50/30/20 budget rule and how they will apply these principles to determine how much they can afford in rent while still covering other essential costs like utilities, groceries, and transportation.
- Assessing the affordability of various apartments. Students now know how to consider factors such as rent, security deposits, application fees, and potential moving costs. Their future budgets will guide them in choosing an apartment that aligns with their financial situation.
- Building an emergency fund for unexpected expenses (like repairs or medical bills) that may arise. Having an emergency fund ensures our students are financially prepared for such situations without compromising their ability to pay rent.
- Understanding credit scores because landlords check credit scores during the rental application process. A good credit score can improve a student’s chances of securing an apartment. By managing their finances wisely, they will maintain a positive credit history.
Here are a few students favorite learning experiences from our visit:
- They have accessible units for people who use a wheelchair.
- I liked hearing what would happen if you didn’t pay your bills.
- I enjoyed learning about everything it takes to rent an apartment and the fees associated with it.
- Before renting an apartment, you should look at a variety of apartments and decide if you want a roommate.
- You should determine your needs before focusing on your wants.
About Our Personal Finance Course
Personal Finance is taken in the second or third year of the OLSBC program and establishes a foundation of money-management knowledge, tools, and skills necessary to live independently; for example: using basic math and calculator skills to solve personal finance problems, identifying household bills and basic money-management skills required to live independently, and learning how to compute sales tax and tips.
About OLS Bellevue College
Occupational & Life Skills Bellevue College (OLSBC) is an associate degree program for students with learning disabilities. In our uniquely supportive skills-based program, students apply academic knowledge through community activities, service learning and social experiences. Students identify a career pathway, gain marketable, workplace-ready competencies, develop better interpersonal skills and complete an internship in alignment with their career goals.
Learn more about our program at an upcoming Information Session, open to all prospective students, family members/guardians, educators, counselors and other service providers. Come learn why OLS Bellevue College is one of the best colleges for students with learning disabilities.
Last Updated April 25, 2024