First Post!

I've been reading personal finance blogs for at least 2 years, starting when I realized that I knew absolutely nothing about money-student loans, credit cards, car loans, etc. I was uncomfortable knowing so little, especially as I realized that I couldn't keep relying on my family to help me out. So I've been reading, reading, reading, and now, I finally feel ready to participate. I am heavily inspired by "An English Major's Money" blog, so props to her! :-)

As I graduated from college exactly one week ago, it seems like a good time to start my own blog. I am the proud possessor of an honors degree in Sociology, summa cum laude, from a private liberal arts college. Following in the proud footsteps of sociology majors before me, known for the highly lucrative career options available to them, I have an unpaid internship this summer, and I will spend next year doing Americorps. None of the steps I've taken so far point towards financial success (or even sustainability!) but I know that my time and efforts are not wasted. Some things are more important than money.

I don't come from a family with money, nor are my family members notable for their fiscal responsibility...far from it, in fact. This has strongly shaped my financial goals and awareness. Nevertheless, I'll end my first entry with a quick run-down of my net worth and financial goals.

Net Worth:
Student Loans: ($32,996)
Cash Assets: $3,067
Liabilities (credit cards): ($659)

Car: $4,500

Total Net Worth: -$26,088

That is scary! But I'm in better shape than many I know, and my financial situation isn't as bad as it seems, as I will detail later. Also, I include my car here, but I'm giving it away soon and will soon have to erase its value from my net worth. If only my wardrobe could be considered part of my net worth!

Financial Goals: 2008-2009
I still measure time in academic years, so my date to meet these goals is September 1st, 2009

Goal #1: Donate $500 to charity
Goal #2: Donate $200 more to Obama's Campaign
Goal #3: Save $1000 in Roth IRA
Goal #4: Pre-pay $1500 on student loan
Goal #5: Save $1000 in online savings account

Did I mention my salary for the next year (08-09) will be approximately $800 a month in New York City?