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.
Name:
Melissa – @money_withmelissa
Taylor’s comment: Melissa is our very first non-anonymous person!
How old are you?
27
Where do you live? City and State (or Country if outside the U.S.)
New Jersey
Do you like where you currently live? Why or why not?
Yes, my family lives here.
What is your highest level of education?
Bachelor’s
Are you single or married?
Single
If you are married, do you and your spouse have joint or separate finances?
Not applicable
Do you have any children or dependents? If yes, please explain.
0
Do you have any pets?
1 cat
Do you find it easy or hard to make friends?
Easy, I am very friendly.
Do you have any hobbies? Please explain.
I like to run
Has Covid-19 impacted you financially in any way?
It impacted in a positive way. I spent less money staying home and I found an extra part time job (Amazon) since it was really at a high demand during that time. I took advantage of the bonuses.
About how much do you spend on groceries each week?
$50
What is your total monthly rent / mortgage for your household?
$615
What is your current occupation? If not currently employed, please say “Not Employed”
Recruiter
If you are currently employed, do you like your job? Why or why not?
Yes! I love making a difference in someone’s life each time I make an offer.
What is your yearly salary (or approximate yearly compensation) for your current occupation?
$45000
Do you have a second job or side hustle? If Yes, please explain.
Yes. I still work at Amazon!
If you have a second job or side hustle, about how much money do you make monthly from your second job / side hustle?
~$1,666
Have you ever been promoted at work? Please elaborate if so.
No.
Have you ever negotiated your salary?
Not yet.
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?
$49,000 in 17 months.
If you do have debt, what kinds of debt (i.e. credit cards, student loans, car) and how much debt do you have?
N/A
Are you currently investing for retirement?
No
If yes, about how much do you have invested for retirement?
Not contributing at the moment. I do have about $2700 so far.
What’s been your favorite purchase of 2021 so far?
Buying out my leased vehicle. It felt great knowing I own my car.
What’s one piece of advice you’d give to your younger self? (Doesn’t have to be money-related)
Don’t follow what everyone else is doing. It’s okay that you don’t have the latest car and the latest phone.
What are your money goals, if any?
What is your #1 financial concern right now?
I don’t have any concerns at the moment.
What financial victory/success are you most proud of?
Being debt free and having my 6 months emergency fund!
*Bonus question*: What makes you imperfect?
My time management skills. I need to work on managing my time better!
