Economy 101

Economy 101: How the Economy Affects Everyday Life

The economy might sound like something only experts talk about, but it shapes almost every aspect of daily living—from the price of groceries to the availability of jobs. This course introduces young adults to the basics of how the economy works and helps them see the connection between big-picture trends and their personal financial choices.

Participants will learn how to:

• Understand what the economy is – The flow of money, goods, and services between businesses, governments, and individuals.

• Explore supply and demand – How availability of products and consumer demand affect prices.

• Learn about inflation and recession – What they mean, why they happen, and how they affect families and businesses.

• See how government plays a role – Taxes, spending, and policies that impact jobs, wages, and prices.

• Understand unemployment and job markets – Why job availability rises and falls and how it connects to economic health.

• Recognize global connections – How international trade, imports, and exports influence local economies.

• Connect personal finance to the economy – Why interest rates, wages, and the cost of living shift based on larger economic trends.

• Develop awareness as a consumer and worker – Understanding how individual choices also play a role in shaping economic activity.

By the end of this course, participants will see that the economy isn’t just something on the news—it’s a living system that affects their money, opportunities, and future. They’ll leave with the confidence to follow economic trends and make smarter decisions in their personal and professional lives.