What do a fashion designer, veterinarian and an ice cream tester all have in common? They are all career-paths chosen by teen counselors-in-training (CIT) at the Boys & Girls Club of Manchester.

Fifteen teens, commonly referred to as CIT’s, participated in a five-week CU 4 Reality Program sponsored by St. Mary’s Bank. The financial literacy program takes a hands-on practical approach to budgeting and financial education through real-world scenarios.

The CIT’s, who are currently in training to be future camp counselors, learned about topics including budgeting and credit and how to make decisions about colleges and student loans. CIT’s also participated in a panel discussion with guest speakers about career choices and exploration.

Jeannie Pappas, CIT Program Director at the Boys & Girls Club said, “I have seen a tremendous growth in the CIT’s in the way they conduct themselves, their confidence, and outlook on their future, and I think that has a lot to do with the program.”

The final week of the program, CIT’s were each provided with a monthly salary based on their personal career choices, and then had to make real-world decisions about rent, food, transportation, insurance, student loans and more, all while staying within their given budget.

“Living on your own is not as easy as I thought,” said Connor Thibeault, 15 year-old CIT. “The money just keeps on adding up.”

When asked why Connor chose to be an ice cream tester as his occupation, he giggled.

“At first it was just a joke, but then Judi told me to do it, so I did, and I like ice cream too.”

Judi Window, Community Outreach at St. Mary’s Bank spoke to the CIT’s about discovering what they are passionate about and planning for their futures.

“It takes courage to choose something different like being an ice cream tester,” said Window. “It’s out of the ordinary, but we should empower our youth to do what they feel passionate about and explore all options.”

Another CIT, AJ Burkhamer, 15, chose to be a fashion designer because of her love for crafts and designing.

“I have 10 dresses and three outfits that I’ve made at home,” she said.

A team of six employees from St. Mary’s Bank volunteered at the CU 4 Reality Fair held at the Boys & Girls Club in Manchester on July 28, along with employees from America’s Credit Museum and the New Hampshire Higher Education Loan Corporation.

For more information about the CU 4 Reality financial literacy program, contact Judi Window, Community Outreach at St. Mary’s Bank, at jwindow@stmarysbank.com.