DENVER – May 28, 2024 – Economic Literacy Colorado (ELC) proudly announced today that Sarvesh Tiku from Fairview High School and Kate Jung from Niwot High School have been awarded the Michael E. McGoldrick Student Scholarships in economics and personal finance, respectively. Made possible by the generous support of the Michael E. McGoldrick Charitable Foundation, these scholarships provide $5,000 each to two Colorado students who have completed a high school economics or personal finance class, or have participated in one of ELC’s student programs, and answered an essay prompt of their choice. Additionally, each winner’s nominating teacher also receives a $500 award.
Tiku, recipient of the economics scholarship, answered the prompt: “Given what you have learned in your high school Economics class, what does the term “economics” mean to you now? In particular, what impact do you see economic concepts or the “economics way of thinking” having on either your current life, or your life in the future?”
A senior at Fairview High School and student of social studies teacher Aaron Hendrikson, Tiku explored his personal experiences with economic principles through price negotiations and seasonal employment while growing up in India, along with insights gained from his AP Macroeconomics class.
“To me, economics means understanding the underlying forces that drive decisions at every level—from individual choices to national policies,” Tiku wrote. “It offers a framework for interpreting the complexities of the world and equipping oneself with the knowledge to actively participate in shaping a more equitable society. As I move forward, whether in personal finance management or in broader societal engagement, economics will continue to empower and guide me.”
Jung, recipient of the Personal Finance Scholarship, answered the prompt: “What three financial literacy skills you have learned about in high school do you see yourself using the most when you are age 30? Briefly describe the three skills you selected, and why consistent use of these skills might help you make informed decisions, achieve your goals, and/or navigate economic uncertainties effectively in your future life.”
A senior at Niwot High School and student of social studies teacher Clark Burton, Jung composed a letter to her future 30 year-old self, reflecting on the financial lessons she learned in school.
“When you invest, you invest with money you don’t need,” wrote Jung. “If Space-X is public now, I truly hope you’ve invested in it. I want you to remember that the stock market has its ups and downs. Never sell when your investments dip, just ride out the wave and wait for the market to come up again. If your stocks are diversified and you play the long game, you will have enough money to put your kids through college and even retire comfortably. You not only need to invest the money, you need to invest the time.”
Economic Literacy Colorado congratulates Sarvesh Tiku and Kate Jung for their remarkable achievements and thanks the Michael E. McGoldrick Charitable Foundation for its support in promoting economic and financial literacy among Colorado students.