Author: JT
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A Pandemic in Peru: Traveling in a Global Shutdown
Over a decade ago in an elementary school Spanish class, my teacher spent a day teaching about Machu Picchu in Peru. That day, I went home and wrote an entry in a journal that remained mostly empty after, one I still have today, saying: “Today Senora Snearly showed us this place called Machu Picchu. She… Read more
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How Packing Less Can Save You More: The Hidden Perks of Traveling Light
Traveling light isn’t just about convenience—it’s a strategy that can lead to significant financial savings. From reducing baggage fees to minimizing stress, the benefits of packing less extend far beyond a lighter suitcase. Let’s unpack how traveling light can also lighten the burden on your wallet. 1. Avoid Checked Baggage Fees One of the most… Read more
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How to Graduate College Debt-Free: Strategies for High School Students
I graduated college at 20 years old with zero student debt. Not because I was rich or had rich parents and not because I’m a genius. Graduating from college debt-free is a goal that may feel out of reach for many students, but with the right strategies, it’s entirely possible! While college costs can be… Read more
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When You Outgrow the 50/30/20 Rule: Mastering Your Wealth-Building Strategy
The 50/30/20 rule is a classic budgeting strategy that has helped countless people manage their finances—especially those just starting their journey toward financial freedom. The simplicity of the rule—50% for needs, 30% for wants, and 20% for savings or debt repayment—makes it easy to understand and implement. But what happens when you’ve mastered the basics… Read more
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How to Budget for Your Dream Vacation Without Sacrificing Your Savings
Planning a dream vacation is one of life’s most exciting adventures, but it can also be financially daunting. Whether you’re planning a tropical getaway, a cultural exploration, or an epic road trip, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement and forget about the bigger financial picture. The key to achieving your dream vacation… Read more
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Sustainable Travel: Living Green and Saving Green While Pursuing Your Adventurous Dreams
Travel is one of the most enriching experiences life has to offer, but it also comes with a cost to both our wallets and the planet. As the world becomes increasingly aware of climate change and its impact on our environment, it’s time for us to rethink how we travel. The good news? Sustainable travel… Read more
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Your First Real Paycheck: A Step-By-Step Guide to Managing Money and Investing
Congratulations! Getting your first real paycheck is a huge milestone. It’s exciting to see that hard-earned money finally land in your bank account, but it also opens up a whole new world of financial responsibilities. Whether you’re looking to build wealth, pay off debt, or just get your finances in order, starting off on the… Read more
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Building Credit Without a Credit Card: Smart Alternatives for Students and Young Adults
Building credit can feel like a daunting task, especially if you’re new to managing your own finances. But here’s the thing—building credit doesn’t always mean you have to jump straight into the world of credit cards, especially if the idea of overspending or racking up debt gives you pause. The good news? There are smart,… Read more
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How to Save for Big Purchases Without Going Into Debt
We’ve all been there—spotting that perfect item or dreaming of a significant purchase, whether it’s a new car, a vacation, or a down payment on a home. While the desire to splurge is natural, going into debt to make a big purchase can lead to financial stress and a long-term payment burden. The good news… Read more
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Book Review: The Little Book of Common Sense Investing by John C. Bogle
John C. Bogle’s The Little Book of Common Sense Investing is a classic in the world of personal finance and investing. As the founder of Vanguard, one of the largest investment management companies, Bogle’s philosophy on investing is straightforward yet profound: the key to long-term success in investing lies in low-cost, diversified index funds. This… Read more