Integrating Individual Student Advising into Financial Education to Optimize Financial Literacy in Veterinary...

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Education
• Financial Literacy
• Student Well-being

Background:

• Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) students experience escalating debt-to-income ratios (DIR), surpassing recommended levels and impacting well-being.
• Traditional financial education models offer limited application opportunities, hindering knowledge retention and behavioral change.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe an integrative financial education approach for DVM students at Colorado State University (CSU).
• To evaluate the effectiveness of personalized financial advising and targeted interventions in improving financial management skills.

Main Methods:

• Development and implementation of a Financial Education Specialist (FES) role providing one-on-one advising.
• Creation of curricular interventions and optional workshops tailored to DVM student needs.
• Data collection through student and alumni surveys to assess knowledge and behavioral changes.

Main Results:

• The integrative approach demonstrated improvements in financial knowledge and management behaviors among DVM students.
• The program is recognized as an emerging best practice, with interest from institutions nationwide.
• High demand for FES services throughout the academic year highlights the need for ongoing support.

Conclusions:

• Personalized, timely, and relevant financial education is crucial for DVM students.
• An integrated approach optimizes knowledge application and promotes lasting behavioral change.
• This model enhances student professional satisfaction and overall well-being.