10/24/2026
Recently, the MTSU Human Development and Family Science program in the College of Education hosted its annual Poverty Simulation! 💙
This immersive, empathy-building experience gives students a glimpse into the challenges individuals and families may face when navigating poverty. Participants step into the roles of family members and work through a simulated week-by-week experience, making difficult decisions, managing budgets, and balancing everyday needs. Through this hands-on activity, students gain a deeper understanding of how poverty can affect children, teenagers, and adults.
We love having the opportunity to connect with students from a variety of majors across campus and help them gain a new perspective by stepping into someone else’s shoes!
Savannah, one of the students who participated, shared:
“I'm in a How People Learn class, and we wanted to come because we are currently learning how poverty affects people's ability to learn.”
We are so grateful to all the students and volunteers who participated and helped make this event a success! Thank you for being part of an experience that encourages empathy, understanding, and meaningful learning. 💙
