Haywood High School students in both Mrs. Denita Jarratt’s and Mrs. Sarah Haynes’ classes participated in a financial education program sponsored by UT Extension last week. Mrs. Tiffany Thomas facilitated the On My Own simulation, which gave students the opportunity to experience their futures in a fun and exciting way. They were encouraged to make healthy and wise lifestyle choices similar to those adults face on a daily basis. After exploring careers, participants received a monthly salary for their chosen career and a family scenario. Then they proceed through “real life,” deducting taxes, determining a savings amount, and spending their monthly salary on household purchases including housing, utilities, transportation, insurance, food, child care, clothing, entertainment and unexpected expenses.