Arizona Teens Win State Finance Title, Head to Nationals

Three teenagers from Chandler, Arizona just proved that financial literacy isn't just for adults. Visruth Manikandan, Vyshal Sreenivas, and Sreekar Charan from Hamilton High School's Finance Club beat dozens of teams to win the state championship in the National Personal Finance Challenge.

The competition tests students on personal finance knowledge in a format similar to a spelling bee. Winners advance to represent their state at the national level, which the trio did in Atlanta.

"Representing a state is a big accomplishment for all of us," Manikandan said after the win.

What sets these students apart isn't just textbook knowledge. They've been practicing real financial skills for years, turning their allowances and free time into hands-on investing experience.

Sreenivas learned from his parents at age 12 when they taught him about stock investing. Charan took his allowance money and started picking individual stocks before transitioning to broader market investments as his schedule got busier.

But the students aren't just focused on their own success. They're thinking bigger.

The Ripple Effect

Sreenivas believes Arizona needs stronger financial education requirements in schools. Currently, the state requires only basic personal finance education as part of another class, not as a standalone course.

"There's like a lot of states across the United States who have specialized personal finance classes that are a requirement for people to graduate," he explained. "I think maybe pushing towards more education reforms could help."

The team placed 17th out of 35 teams at nationals in Atlanta. While they didn't take home the top prize, they're already planning their comeback.

The students say they'll compete again next year with their sights set on a national championship title.