Name: Casey

Age: 25

My favorite personal finance blog: wisebread.com

More about you: I’m a graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Madison with degrees in journalism and mass communication and history. I’m also a former assistant editor for MoneyMix. I recently moved across the country from Wisconsin to California, where I’m starting a whole new adventure in San Francisco.

Why did you start blogging?
I’ve always been fascinated with blogging for its ability to spark dialogue between writers and readers. And as any journalism student of recent years can probably tell you, blogging and other forms of social media have practically become part of the curriculum. So I’ve had a lot of great hands-on experience with blogging both inside and outside the classroom. For me, blogging isn’t just about writing—it’s also about the conversations that blogs inspire.

What do you think is the most important personal finance issue for our generation?
Debt, especially from education expenses, is huge. And with the recent economic trouble in our country, two other issues stand out to me, and they go hand-in-hand: finding employment and obtaining health insurance. It’s so important for young adults to learn how they can best approach these challenges.

What is one thing you know now that you wish they taught in high school or college?
I would have loved to learn more about some of the more practical aspects of hunting for that first full-time job in a tough economic climate. Networking, informational interviews, cover letters—colleges should almost teach an entire class on this stuff. At the same time, I wish I had made better use of my school’s career center, so make sure you take advantage of whatever services your college offers.

What do you do in your free time?
I am a film aficionado! I love movies—but my friends tease me because I have a knack for predicting how they’re going to end. I also love reading, biking, listening to music and checking out new bands, hanging out with friends and family, and cheering on the Wisconsin Badgers!

What are your personal financial goals?
Since I just moved to a big city in a new state, I’m currently focused on the financial aspects of relocating: furnishing my new apartment, transitioning to public transportation after owning a car for years, finding a job, and budgeting for the higher cost of living in California. It’s going to be challenging, but I’m determined to make it work!

If you could travel anywhere, where would you go and why?
I studied European history in college, so I would love to spend more time there. France is my top European destination at the moment. I would also like to make a return visit to Australia someday. My first trip there was amazing—I went snorkeling around the Great Barrier Reef and visited a kangaroo reserve. It doesn’t get much better than that!