It’s Per$onal is an anonymous blog series designed to shed light on the intricate details of the personal finances and lifestyles of women.
How old are you?
28
Where do you live? City and State (or Country if outside the U.S.)
Belvidere, NJ
Do you like where you currently live? Why or why not?
Yes – safe neighborhood, low taxes (comparatively), close-ish to work, good food, family & friends
What is your highest level of education?
Master’s
Are you single / in a relationship / married?
Engaged (wedding in March)
If you are in a relationship / married, do you and your partner have joint or separate finances?
Separate
More It’s Per$onal:
Do you have any children / dependents?
18-year-old college student
Do you have any pets?
One special needs cat
Do you find it easy or hard to make friends?
Hard – I am introverted & enjoy alone time
Do you have any hobbies? Please explain.
Weight lifting, walking, reading books, listening to podcasts, watching TV/movies, traveling
Has Covid-19 impacted you financially in any way?
Positively (WFH, no social spending, mortgage refi) & negatively (lasting inflation)
About how much do you spend on groceries each week?
$100-200
What is your total monthly rent / mortgage for your household?
1000
What is your current occupation? If not currently employed, please say “Not Employed”
Scientist
If you are currently employed, do you like your job? Why or why not?
Yes – flexible, engaging, good benefits
What is your yearly salary (or approximate yearly compensation) for your current occupation?
$82k base / $160k total comp (bonus, 401k, health insurance)
Do you have a second job or side hustle? If Yes, please explain.
No – can finally afford NOT to
If you have a second job or side hustle, about how much money do you make monthly from your second job / side hustle?
N/A
Have you ever been promoted at work? Please elaborate if so.
Yes – promoted to a higher level of my same role
Have you ever negotiated your salary?
Tried to (HR laughed at me)
Are you debt-free?
Yes
If you are debt free, how much debt have you paid off and how long did it take you to pay it all off?
Windfalls – insurance claim & inheritance from grandparents. Lesson learned & will stay out of debt forever now.
If you do have debt, what kinds of debt (i.e. credit cards, student loans, car) and how much debt do you have?
Mortgage only, but I don’t count it. I don’t count my home as part of my net worth either.
Are you currently investing for retirement?
Yes
If yes, about how much do you have invested for retirement?
$60k
What’s been your favorite purchase of 2022 so far?
Wedding!
What’s one piece of advice you’d give to your younger self? (Doesn’t have to be money-related)
Apply for scholarships
What are your money goals, if any?
Stay debt free / have a plan when taking on debt
What is your #1 financial concern right now?
Growing my salary this past year has been more difficult than I had imagined it would ever be
What financial victory/success are you most proud of?
Never financing a car, using credit cards wisely, paying myself first
What makes you imperfect?
Literally everything haha
It’s Per$onal is an anonymous blog series designed to shed light on the intricate details of the personal finances and lifestyles of women.
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