Tools for High School—and for Life

Yes! If you just landed your first job you'll need a place to deposit that first paycheck—and a student checking account is a smart next step.

Student checking or student spending accounts are generally available for students age 14-24. They often have features like no (or low) fee banking, no balance requirements, online and mobile banking, and other benefits to help make banking easier for students. And, checking and savings go hand in hand. Having a savings account set up means you can stash a little bit from each paycheck to build up your savings over time. Pro tip: Set up Direct Deposit to have your paycheck automatically deposited on payday. You can also set up an automatic deposit to your savings account so you don't even have to think about it.

See what you get with a Citizens Student Checking account (available to ages 14–24).

High school is a great time to take more control of your finances, especially if you have your first job. Here are some things you can be doing to build good money habits:

Understand the difference between wants and needs
A new video game? Want. Shoes that actually fit? Need. Start thinking about where your money goes and try to save up for the things that are most important to you.

Consider getting a part-time job
A side hustle or summer job earns you extra cash and a sense of accomplishment. Plus, you’ll get real-world experience and life skills that are great for college apps and resumes down the road.

Learn how to budget
A budget helps you balance spending, savings, and essentials. Use a simple tracker to see where your money goes. Practicing restraint in spending can go a long way toward saving towards a car payment or college expenses down the road.

Understand credit and debt
Debt will likely be a part of everyone’s future in the form of credit cards, or student loans if you’re attending college. Learning how to build credit (by borrowing responsibly and making on-time payments) and avoid debt (i.e., overspending) can make all the difference. Learn how to build credit now.

Open your first checking account
Citizens offers student checking accounts starting at 14, with a debit card so you can use the money you earn. Learn the difference between checking and savings—and why you’ll want both.

Ask questions
If you’ve got questions, like “what’s compound interest?”, talk to your parents, a trusted adult, or contact one of our banking experts. The better you are with managing money now, the better you’ll handle finances in the future.

High school is all about discovering who you are and what you enjoy. If college is on your list to accomplish, here are some steps you can take now to prepare for college:

• Get Involved — Join the band, play sports, or explore the many extracurriculars your school offers. This is a great way to learn what you love (and what you don't)—and it looks great on college apps. 
• Focus on Your Grades — Good grades can matter, especially if the school you want to go to is highly competitive. If you are struggling with a class, don’t hesitate to reach out to the teacher for help or consider a tutor. 
• Build Strong Study Habits — Practicing good habits now will help you in the classroom and help you prepare for the PSAT, SAT, ACT, and AP courses. And, strong study habits now will help make your transition to college that much easier.
• Take Standardized Tests — While some school are still test optional, strong PSAT, SAT, and/or ACT scores could boost your chances of getting into your dream school. And strong scores could set you up to earn merit scholarships.
• Talk About Money — College is expensive. Have an honest conversation with your family about what you can afford. It’s also a great time to learn how to save and budget.
• Level Up Your Writing — Your college essay can help you stand out amongst a sea other applicants. Being able to articulate experiences through words will help set you up for success.
• Connect with Teachers and Counselors — Build good relationships with teachers, coaches, and counselors. They’re there to guide you though high school and could give you strong recommendation letters come application time. 
• Explore Careers and Majors — High school is an ideal time to explore your interests. Really thinking about what you might like to pursue as a career now can help you choose the right college and avoid costly changes (like transferring colleges) later.

Taking small steps now can make a big difference when it comes to college applications. You’ve got this!

Your grades do matter in that they can help shape your class placements, college options, and even financial aid. If you are struggling with grades, there are other ways to help balance your college application:

1. Participation in extracurricular activities
2. A well-written personal essay
3. Strong letters of recommendation
4. Scoring high on standardized tests
5. Academic rigor (are you taking AP classes?)
6. Talent in a specific activity (are you an amazing actor, dancer, athlete, or musician?)

If your “what’s next” after high school isn’t a traditional 4-year college, that’s okay. Here are some options you can explore that could still offer amazing experiences.

1. Go to community college — Earn a two-year associate's degree for less money. It’s a great way to start a career or set up a transfer to a four-year school later.
2. Start working — Gig work and part-time jobs don’t necessarily require a 4-year degree, so start working and saving money. Maybe you’ll find something you love! 
3. Start at a trade school or vocational program — Learn hands-on skills for specific jobs and become an electrician, mechanic, plumber, or cosmetologist. These options are faster, affordable, and prepare you for often well-paying jobs.
4. Online degrees — If flexibility is the reason a 4-year college wasn’t for you, online degrees could offer what you need. Study from anywhere and at your own pace while working or handling other responsibilities.
5. Enlist in the military — The military offers a steady paycheck, free training, health benefits, and future college funding. Choose from: Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, and Coast Guard. 
6. Take a gap year — Need a break? Use a gap year to travel, work, volunteer, or explore interests. 
7. Volunteer with the Peace Corps — Spend some time overseas helping communities while gaining real-world experience and learning about other cultures. It’s a great way to grow and give back.

If you’re still not sure about what path you should take, try exploring career options with our Career Finder. You’ll see what job skills you need for each career, expected salaries, and job growth projections.