Terps Practice Budgeting And Career Planning With SECU

The Kubasik First Impact Program, Maryland’s involved student-athletes continue to be provided opportunities to explore their identity, strengths, and interests through hands-on learning, career exposure, and the development of essential career-readiness skills.

The latest opportunity featured a workshop from SECU’s Dawne’ Benton & Rasha Antar that helped the Terps gain valuable budgeting practice and experience making large financial decisions. 

“I thought it was a really valuable exercise because it let me make real-world financial decisions during the activity,” track and field athlete DJ Tarver said. “It gave me a clear glimpse into my future life and finances and helped me understand what I’ll be working with.”

During the session, student-athletes received personalized profiles outlining a career in their chosen field, including information about potential salary, required education, and training. Using this information, students were then able to make real-world budgeting and financial planning decisions.

“This session gives our student-athletes a chance to envision the future they want—and understand what it will take to get there,” Sydney Anderson, Maryland’s Associate Director of Student-Athlete Development, said. “The Kubasik First Impact Program is all about helping them explore who they are, what they’re interested in, and how their strengths align with their goals. Partnering with SECU allows us to provide real, personalized insights that make career planning and financial decision-making feel both practical and empowering.”

The workshop was one of many provided opportunities that the Kubasik First Impact Program offers its student-athletes throughout the school year as it prepares them for life after college athletics. 

“One of the biggest challenges I faced was trying to balance the essentials with the things I enjoy,” Tarver said. “It was hard deciding how much to put toward housing and transportation without leaving myself short on leisure money. Trying to make everything fit into a realistic budget while still having a life was the toughest part.”

Thanks to SECU, Maryland Made and the Kubasik First Impact Program, the next time Tarver and the rest of the student-athletes face budgeting decisions won’t be the first time they have big decisions to make and they’ll be prepared for whatever life throws their way.