Navigating the transition to adulthood can be overwhelming, but Michigan State University (MSU) Extension’s Adulting 101 program is designed to help young people develop the essential life skills they need to succeed. Covering topics like financial management, job stability, housing and mental health, this free program offers practical guidance in an accessible and engaging format.
A Program with Purpose
MSU Extension 4-H has been teaching life skills to youth for over 100 years. As part of MSU’s land-grant mission, the University seeks to improve lives by bringing expert knowledge and resources directly to individuals and communities. Recognizing the need for more targeted support, Adulting 101 was launched to help teens and young adults prepare for independent living.
“The program started during the pandemic when we received numerous requests to offer life skills education for youth transitioning out of foster care,” said Kathy Jamieson, MSU Extension Educator. “A team of educators identified 30 topics and adapted them into interactive online sessions. When we opened them to the general population, they filled quickly, showing just how great the need was.” Jamieson co-coordinates the program with Laurie Rivetto and Janice Zerbe.
Covering topics like financial management, job stability, housing and mental health, this free program offers practical guidance in an accessible and engaging format.
Addressing Real-World Challenges
Young adults face a variety of obstacles as they move toward independence, from managing finances and maintaining stable employment to securing housing and balancing responsibilities. Adulting 101 tackles these issues head-on with expert-led sessions that provide practical tools and strategies.
Some of the most common struggles include:
- Financial Management – Budgeting, paying bills, understanding credit and managing debt.
- Job Stability – Securing and maintaining employment, workplace expectations and career planning.
- Housing & Rent – Finding affordable housing, understanding leases and communicating with landlords.
- Time Management – Balancing work, social life and personal responsibilities.
- Emotional & Mental Health – Managing stress, setting boundaries and building healthy relationships.
Each session is led by MSU Extension educators or industry experts who provide guidance on these crucial topics. Instructors include Jamieson and Rivetto, as well as Jinnifer Ortquist, Darien Wilkerson and Janelle Stewart.
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Making an Impact
The response to the program has been overwhelmingly positive, with participants from across Michigan and beyond joining the monthly sessions. Many have shared how Adulting 101 has influenced their lives:
“The ‘healthy relationships’ session will save me a lot of therapy bills down the line. It’s very, very important stuff.”
“Great program – the recordings are especially helpful for someone with a busy schedule.”
“I love these programs. You’ve done a wonderful job continuing to educate the community.”
Participants have also expressed how the program has changed their approach to adulthood:
“I now pay attention to my small spending and the emotions influencing my financial decisions.”
“I plan to research my desired career and find someone to interview to learn more about the field.”
“I’m enforcing boundaries, even when it’s uncomfortable.”
With sessions offered online, Adulting 101 makes it easy for young adults to learn essential life skills in a way that fits their schedule. Whether it’s financial literacy, career readiness or personal well-being, this program provides the tools needed to navigate adulthood with confidence.
For those hesitant about attending the sessions, Jamieson has a simple message: “Spend an hour with us for FREE and you’re guaranteed to gain insights that can save you time, money or stress in the future.”
For more info or to register for an upcoming session, visit canr.msu.edu/events/adulting-101-2025
