The Power of Financial Literacy: My Journey and Why It Should Matter to Every Student
by Team Sammy
Guest Blogger Felix Peng
In this special guest blog, Sammy Rabbit is proud to showcase the journey and aspirations of Felix Peng, President of the Harvey Mudd College Class of 2028. Felix, is pursuing a degree in engineering and has a keen interest in business, technology, and everything in between. He hopes to make a meaningful impact on the world.
Outside the classroom, Felix shares that he enjoys physical challenges, including bruising his knees learning breakdancing and working on calisthenics—dreaming of one day achieving flight.
My Journey
My journey to financial literacy began unexpectedly in middle school. It was 2019, and I loved playing Minecraft. The game's 1.14 update took my love to another level. I became so excited about the game's future, I wanted to invest in it. Minecraft is owned by Microsoft, so I made it my first stock purchase. Simultaneously, I also invested in McDonald’s for a similar reason, I loved their food. Although I had little understanding of what I was doing, these initial investments ignited a desire and drive within me to learn more about personal finance.
In high school, my passion for finance led me to join organizations like the Young Investors Society (YIS), where I completed their courses, founded my own chapter, and eventually served as their Global President. I also competed in FBLA and DECA events, gaining hands-on experience in areas like securities and investments. These activities deepened my understanding of financial literacy and its critical role for young people.
However, as I prepared for college, I realized my path was shifting. Instead of pursuing a business degree, I decided to major in engineering.
At first glance, this transition from a business-heavy background to engineering might seem unexpected, but for me, it was a logical choice. I wanted to develop technical skills that would expand my opportunities and support my long-term goal of becoming an entrepreneur. Engineering offers the chance to create and innovate, blending perfectly with the leadership and networking skills I had built through my business experiences.
My physics teacher, Ms. Jensvold, played a pivotal role in shaping this decision. She explained that while I could always transition from an engineering degree to business with an MBA, the reverse would be far more difficult. A business undergraduate degree wouldn’t provide the same level of technical expertise. Her advice solidified my belief that combining technical and business skills would position me uniquely to excel in both fields.
Thus, today, I find myself at Harvey Mudd College pursuing a degree in Engineering and serving as the Class of 2028 president.
Why Financial Literacy Should Matter to Every Student
Why should all students care about financial literacy, even if they’re not planning to study business or finance?
1. It gives you the power of choice.
Knowing how to manage money means taking control of your future—whether it’s saving for college, starting a business, or having the freedom to explore new opportunities. Without financial knowledge, many people feel stuck, unable to afford the things they want or need. Financial literacy empowers you to make decisions that align with your goals.
2. Starting early unlocks the time value of money.
The earlier you begin saving or investing, the more your money can grow thanks to compounding. Even small habits, like budgeting or opening a savings account, can lead to significant results over time. These habits are easiest to build when you’re young and have fewer financial responsibilities, making early education in financial literacy incredibly valuable.
3. It reduces stress and uncertainty.
Money is one of the biggest sources of anxiety, but understanding how it works makes it less intimidating. Learning to budget, save, and invest equips you with confidence and peace of mind. These skills are universal and relevant regardless of your career path—whether you’re an engineer, teacher, artist, or anything else.
In the end, financial literacy is about creating the life you want.
My journey, from investing in Minecraft to pursuing engineering, has taught me that combining skills opens doors to unique opportunities. No matter your field, understanding personal finance gives you the tools to take control of your future and turn dreams into reality.
Unquestionably, financial literacy has been one of the most important skills I’ve learned so far.
Discover more about our featured Guest Blogger
To learn more about Felix, connect with her on LinkedIn: Felix Peng!
Attention Young Leaders
We welcome and invite you to participate in Sammy's 'Be the Change' financial literacy initiative for college and high school students.
(1) Join peers advancing awareness on the importance of early age, youth, and family financial education by having your journey into financial literacy featured as a Sammy Rabbit Guest Blogger.
Arin Wani: Teen Leader Was Encouraged to Aim High!
Jacklin Wang: Becoming Financially Literate Since Age 9
Index of Student Blogs (Click and scroll down)
(2) Then volunteer as a Sammy Rabbit Ambassador or Intern championing financial literacy in your community and around the globe! Learn more in these blogs or by CONTACTING Team Sammy today! We welcome your questions and suggestions on Sammy Rabbit and his mission to get kids, families & communities financially literate.
