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SMMC News & Events Blog
This blog highlights news, events, and informative articles on personal finance from University of Illinois System's Student Money Management Center. Feel free to navigate to different categories with the list of topics on the right or search for a specific topic next to the view all link below.

blog posts

  • Podcast: Zombie Properties & Mortgages

    by Andrea PellegriniOct 22, 2024 12:00 pm

    In episode 96 of Making Cents of Money, Kari Beyer from IDFPR's Division of Banking is back to discuss the dangers of zombie mortgages and zombie properties in this special halloween-themed edition. 

  • Podcast: Basic Needs & Needs Insecurity

    by Andrea PellegriniOct 7, 2024 12:00 pm

    In episode 95 of Making Cents of Money, basic needs and needs security and some adjacent terms, like financial fragility, are discussed by our co-hosts, Kimber and Andrea.

  • Searching for Part-Time Jobs as a Student

    by Andrea PellegriniSep 30, 2024 5:00 pm

    Searching for part-time work? In order to land that side hustle, it helps to know where to go, how to prepare your application materials, and what to ask when it comes to the interviewing process.

  • The Power of Financial Education: A Key to Success for College Students

    by Richard Owusu-CyrusSep 25, 2024 12:30 pm

    Financial education is essential for college students, equipping them with the skills and knowledge to make informed financial decisions that will not only enhance their college experience but also pave the way for long-term success.

  • Podcast: Cost of Living

    by Andrea PellegriniSep 24, 2024 12:00 pm

    In episode 94 of Making Cents of Money, Andrea and Kimber discuss the cost of living and why it matters when comparing costs and how far your dollars will go if you relocate.

  • Podcast: On Ramp to Repayment Ends 9/30 for Federal Loan Borrowers

    by Andrea PellegriniSep 16, 2024 12:00 pm

    In episode 93 of Making Cents of Money, Brad Fletcher joins us yet again to talk about the On Ramp to Repayment ending on September 30, 2024, and what that means for borrowers currently in repayment.

  • Podcast: PSLF Seekers in SAVE: Costs of Administrative Forbearance

    by Andrea PellegriniSep 10, 2024 12:00 pm

    In episode 92 of Making Cents of Money, Brad Fletcher joins us again to talk about the current state of student loans on the SAVE repayment plan and the PSLF Buyback program for borrowers nearing completion of their PSLF requirements.

  • Understand Your Refund - Fall 2024

    by SMMC StaffAug 29, 2024 7:00 am

    Many students end up unable to register every semester because they owe money back to the university, even after receiving a refund. Learn answers to frequently asked questions about refunds and get entered to win one of five $50 gift cards.

  • Podcast: Retirement Savings in Illinois

    by Andrea PellegriniAug 26, 2024 12:00 pm

    In episode 91 of Making Cents of Money, Retirement Savings in Illinois, Christine Cheng from the Illinois Treasurer's office discusses how Illinois is addressing barriers to planning for retirement and helping small businesses provide retirement benefits to their employees.

  • Podcast: Back to School - College & Credit

    by Andrea PellegriniAug 12, 2024 12:00 pm

    In episode 90 of Making Cents of Money, Back to School: College & Credit, Kimber & Andrea discuss credit cards and financing options for students and families, including the different tools and their short and long-term impacts.