This session is built for young adults who want to take control of their financial future in 2026, at a time when rising costs, student debt, and economic uncertainty are real and immediate. Instead of trying to cover everything, we zero in on the essentials: how to manage credit, build a basic budget, and make smarter day-to-day financial decisions in a high-cost environment. We will also touch briefly on digital tools like online payments and crypto, and name the added financial pressures facing young people in mixed-status families. The goal is simple: leave with a clear understanding of a few core concepts and practical steps you can actually use right away.