When I think about giving a speech to college freshmen about the importance of sticking to a budget, I realize how important it is to connect with them right away. I would kick things off with a personal story that really resonates—like the time I found myself overspending on things I didn't need and then scrambling to make it to the next payday during my first year. It was a tough lesson, but it taught me a lot about managing my finances.
I’d also share some strategies that worked for me when I was trying to save money during college. I learned firsthand how crucial it is to stick to a budget, and I think my experiences could serve as a practical guide for them.
As I wrap up the speech, I would focus on offering them something they can take away—a simple, practical idea. I’d ask them to imagine how liberating it would feel to graduate without any debt or to have saved enough for an exciting trip after finishing school. That was a goal I held onto during my studies. To make it actionable, I’d encourage them to track their spending for just a week, showing them how easy it is to take that first step towards budgeting.