Students Get a Taste of “Adulting” at Adult Life Simulation Event

By Bobbee Russell-Verhoef | December 1, 2025

Kennedy Junior High students eagerly entered the gym with their reality town book in hand, ready to take on a unique challenge – living life as 30-year-olds.  

cards for the event

Reality Town cards

students interacting at the event

Students interacting at the event

student participating

Dress for the job you want!

Each student was assigned a career in their booklet, complete with information about their monthly income, spouse, and children. They visited various booths run by community volunteers, where they learned financial and life skills, including budgeting, prioritizing needs over wants, understanding federal and state taxes, and recognizing the benefits of education.  

Volunteers guided students through adult decisions, such as purchasing life insurance, arranging childcare, buying clothing and groceries, budgeting for entertainment, and exploring military service.  

Many students came dressed up for their future careers, some wearing doctors’ coats, while others opted for business casual attire. One student sported a neon vest and hard hat, ready to represent the electrical engineering field.

When asked about their aspirations, students said they want to be professional soccer/basketball players, animal police officers, and tattoo artists.