I’ve spent most of my school years learning things like equations, historical dates, and grammar rules. And while that’s all been important, there are a few things I wish we talked about more stuff that comes up in real life, but doesn’t always come up in class.
In 2025, being a student feels different. The world’s changing fast, and we’re growing up in the middle of it. That’s why I think it’s a good time to start learning some real-life skills that help us handle everyday situations better and feel more prepared for what’s ahead.
Here are a few that I believe should be part of every student’s learning journey:
1. How to Handle Money Without Feeling Lost
We’ve all been taught how to solve math problems, but what about the real stuff like saving, spending, or even paying bills?
Here’s what I wish I knew more about:
- How to budget when you get a monthly allowance
- The difference between debit and credit cards
- What it means to pay taxes (not in a boring way, just the basics), How to save up for something without running out halfway
This is the kind of money knowledge that stays with you. And the earlier we start, the less confusing it’ll be later on.
2. Taking Care of Yourself Isn’t Just About Health
Knowing how to take care of yourself doesn’t only mean eating vegetables or drinking enough water (though that helps too). It also means knowing how to cook something basic, wash your own clothes, or fix a button that popped off.
Here’s what I think every student should learn:
- Making a simple meal without using a food delivery app
- Basic first aid just enough to help someone until help arrives
- Using everyday appliances without Googling “how to use a washing machine”
- Keeping a small space clean and organized
It’s not about being perfect, it’s about being ready.
3. Figuring Out Feelings
I’ve had days where I’ve felt anxious, tired, or just off and I didn’t know what to do with those feelings. I’ve also had friends go through the same. That’s why I think emotional awareness should be something we all learn.
It could be things like:
- Knowing when you need a break (and allowing yourself to take it)
- Understanding what stress feels like in your body
- Talking about your emotions without feeling weird
- Being kind to others and to yourself
We all go through tough days. Having the tools to handle them makes all the difference.
4. Using the Internet Without Getting Lost In It
We’re online for almost everything: classes, entertainment, conversations. But not everyone talks about how to stay smart and safe while scrolling, sharing, or searching.
Here’s what I’ve found useful:
- Being careful about what I post and who sees it
- Not falling for random links or fake news
- Respecting people’s privacy, including my own
- Taking breaks from the screen when it gets too much
The internet is awesome but only when we know how to use it wisely.
5. Learning to Think, Not Just Memorize
One thing I’ve learned from life outside of textbooks is this: sometimes, there’s no one right answer. You have to figure things out on your own. And that’s where thinking skills come in.
For example:
- Asking “why?” more often
- Looking at a problem and breaking it down, step by step
- Not being afraid to try, even if the answer isn’t obvious
- Being open to different opinions, even if you don’t agree
Thinking on your feet is one of the most useful things you can learn and it shows up everywhere, not just in exams.
We’re growing up in a time where change is normal. And while school teaches us a lot, there’s also space to learn a few extra things that make life smoother, simpler, and less confusing.
Whether it’s managing money, cooking a meal, talking through a problem, or scrolling safely we’ll thank ourselves later for learning these now.
Because at the end of the day, education isn’t just about grades. It’s about being ready for real life.
Kashvi Maddulety (TGES KPHB)
