High Point FCU brings Bite of Reality to Olean High School
January 14th, 2026 – Olean, NY. High Point Federal Credit Union staff shared their new Bite of Reality financial education program with Olean High School, with nearly 50 seniors participating. Bite of Reality is a modern, app-based simulation that gives students hands-on experience managing personal finances in real-world scenarios.
High Point FCU originally implemented the Mad City Money program in 2013, presenting it at Olean and Allegany high schools. Today, the Credit Union has transitioned to Bite of Reality, an updated version of the same concept delivered through an interactive mobile app. The program continues to provide students with a realistic look at adult financial responsibilities while leveraging technology to enhance engagement and accessibility.
Through Bite of Reality, students begin by selecting an assigned “identity,” which includes an occupation, salary, family status, student loan and credit card debt, and insurance expenses. Using the app, participants make financial decisions related to housing, transportation, childcare, food, and other necessities, all while working to stay within their assigned budget.
Students learn how to manage monthly expenses, understand credit card payments, handle unexpected financial challenges and windfalls, and evaluate how lifestyle choices impact their financial stability. While some students are able to save money by the end of the simulation, others must revisit decisions and make more affordable choices, mirroring real-life financial tradeoffs.
When asked about the main takeaways, students shared a greater appreciation for their parents’ spending decisions, a clearer understanding of the true cost of living, and the importance of managing and paying down debt. Experiencing these scenarios in a controlled, interactive environment helps students build practical financial knowledge they may not otherwise gain.
High Point FCU is excited to offer Bite of Reality to high schools throughout its expanded field of membership, which includes all of Allegany, Cattaraugus, McKean, and Potter counties. For more information or to schedule Bite of Reality at your school, email Marketing@highpointfcu.com or call (716) 372-6607.
