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FINDING A FINANCIAL MENTOR

Reading books, magazines and articles like this one are great ways to learn more about finance. But don't discount the human touch. Adults who are already in your life may be able to serve as financial mentors, helping you make the most of your money.

Who could you ask? A good mentor knows the subject matter, relates well with you and shows a genuine interest in your success - although final responsibility for what you do with your money stays with you. Your parents are obvious choices for financial mentors, but there are other possibilities.

Consider:

A grandparent, aunt, uncle or other family member.You've probably noticed that many older relatives enjoy showing their affection by instructing you on subjects they've found useful, so asking them to teach you about finance may make both teacher and student happy.

As you think about your family, you may discover that, as in other situations, your relatives have different strengths. One relative might own a business, another might know about rental properties. Which area interests you - or would you like to know a little about everything?

A family friend. With your parents' permission, you might enlist the help of a trusted adult to teach you what they know about money. Consider someone who runs a business or is a financial planner - or maybe just an adult you admire.

The instructor of a school or community education program in finance. Take advantage of your school's offering on the subject, or look into taking a summer or evening class at another venue. The latter classes probably won't be designed specifically for young people, but you may want to investigate them anyway.

A peer who has taken the time to become informed about money. A local chapter of Future Business Leaders of America- Phi Beta Lambda, Inc. is one place to look for other students who share your interest in business.



 
 
Please consider the objectives, risks, charges and expenses of any Columbia fund carefully before investing. Contact your financial advisor for a prospectus, which contains this and other important information about the fund. You should read it carefully before investing.