“Adulting is hard,” a common sentiment echoed by college students and new workforce entrants. The truth is, being an adult is challenging, especially when lacking basic skills and knowledge essential for navigating the real world. Recognizing this gap, Sara Wilson-Abell, a teacher in Louisville, Kentucky, created a three-day course called Adulting 101 for high school seniors. The course covers a range of essential life skills, from money management and home maintenance to professionalism.
The inaugural class of 2019 graduates found the course to be a valuable experience. They learned practical skills like laundry, cooking, and mental health management that are crucial for independence. Wilson-Abell built the curriculum based on community feedback about what skills were lacking in traditional education. The course is structured with each day focusing on a different theme: money and wealth management, home and health, and professionalism.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the second annual Adulting 101 course transformed into an online program. With the help of teachers and technology, Wilson-Abell set up a YouTube channel and website to ensure seniors still received this crucial education. While traditional in-person programming is preferred, the online resources will continue to benefit students in the future. The success of Adulting 101 has inspired other schools to implement similar programs, recognizing the importance of preparing students for real-world challenges.
Ultimately, the goal of Adulting 101 is to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive in adulthood. By addressing this gap in traditional education, schools like Bullitt Central High School and Lumpkin County High School are providing students with practical tools for success beyond graduation. With the desire from students and the positive impact of these programs, it’s clear that life skills education is a crucial component of preparing students for the future.
