Guest Blogger Abhiram "Abhi" Vadiguri
In this special guest blog, Sammy Rabbit is proud to showcase the insights of Abhi Vadiguri!
Abhi returns as a second-time columnist and one of our inspiring Be the Change Ambassadors. If you haven’t already, be sure to check out his first column: Money Habits Begin Early—Even with a Ratatouille Shaped Piggy Bank!
We love championing Abhi’s thoughtful perspective and real-life experiences. We also hope his voice—and the voices of other Be the Change Ambassadors—encourage more young leaders to share their stories and inspire positive change!
Realizing What I Missed
In my neighborhood, there were always kids running lemonade stands or selling things they made—bracelets, cookies, you name it. I never really joined in, and honestly, I didn’t think much about money back then. But looking back, I realize they were actually onto something. Even if it seemed small, they were getting a head start on something big: learning how to earn and value money.
Now I see that anyone—at any age—can start that journey. You don’t have to be an adult to start thinking about money in a smart way.
When It Started to Click
For me, things changed in high school. I wanted to buy stuff without always asking my parents. At the same time, I started wondering how people could afford things like college, cars, or even just nicer clothes—without help.
That’s when I started paying more attention. I began tracking what I spent each month and setting small savings goals. I even started learning about budgeting and investing (still a work in progress!). But even those simple steps changed how I see money. It stopped being this scary or mysterious thing. Instead, it became something I could understand, manage, and actually use to my advantage.
You Don’t Have to Be a Math Genius
Here’s one big thing I’ve realized: learning about money doesn’t mean you have to be great at math or some kind of financial expert. It just takes curiosity and a little effort. And the earlier you start—even if it’s just understanding the value of money—the better off you’ll be in the long run.
Whether you’re selling lemonade in elementary school or trying out your first budget in high school, it all matters. Every step counts.
Why It Matters So Much
Money impacts almost every part of life. Learning how to handle it early gives you a head start most people don’t even realize they need—until it’s too late.
So even if you haven’t done much with money yet, start now. Ask questions. Set one small goal. Learn from people around you. It’s your future, and you deserve the knowledge, skills, and tools to make the most of it.
Connect with our Featured Guest Blogger
This Abhi's second article as a 'Be the Change' Ambassador. Be sure also check out his first colimn titled: Money Habits Begin Early—Even with a Ratatouille Shaped Piggy Bank!
And, to learn more about Abhi, connect with him on LinkedIn: Abhi Vadiguri
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.
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.
Opportunities for Impact with Sammy Rabbit
For opportunities to have impact in your community and with the audiences you serve, explore:
Back to School Sponsor Strategies that Boost Financial Literacy for Kids
Financial Education Projects You Can Emulate, Adapt, and Scale
Sammy Rabbit's Financial Education Project Menu
Sammy Rabbit's Sing, Learn, and Color About Money Program
Give Kids and Families Free Access to Financial Education Resources