Now, as a scientist, or more technically a biochemist, I spend my days learning about DNA, cells and proteins along with their structure, interactions and functions. Work involves either writing essays, reading papers or learning lab techniques. As a student, I also spend time playing sports, watching films and chilling with friends.
So, as a science undergrad, why am I telling you to read a finance book…
What is “Rich Dad, Poor Dad”?
As somewhat evidenced by the title, this book illustrates the thoughts and mindsets of a considered “poor man” and “rich man” about money. These perspectives are told from the experience of the author Robert Kiyosaki, who grew up under the influence of his own father (the “poor dad”) and his friend’s father (the “rich” dad). Kiyosaki shares the lessons and views he learnt from both dads and the steps that we can take, as the reader, to improve our own financial educations.
So, why should we as students read it…?
…the dreaded student loans.
For many of us, to pay for our college education we have taken out loans to cover both the university fees and maintenance costs, to allow us to eat and sleep whilst studying. These loans are hardly ever sufficient to cover our expenses and so we either end up in even more debt or spend out summer holidays working to have enough money to at least enjoy ourselves whilst not under stress from studying.
But, what if instead of working for money, we could have money work for us?
This message of having money work for us, is the message that Kiyosaki reinforces throughout the book through the use of different examples and is his advice for us to become more financially independent.
An approachable guide and ‘wake-up’ call
This book will change your perspective on how you view money. Not only is it written in an entertaining way, but a simplistic way, without all the complicated financial jargon that as 18-21-year-old (science) undergraduates, we are yet to become familiar with.
The fact is, we are still young. We can afford (no pun intended) to be a bit riskier. Although, in our current state, putting these tips into practise is not possible (since we as students have very little, if any, income), learning these lessons now will put us in good stead for the future.
So, take my advice, invest in this book and embrace the ‘wake-up’ call we as students need to understand money.
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