Jen (Asheville, NC)

“I was trapped in this exhausting cycle of living paycheck to paycheck, using the Earnin app to take money before each pay cycle, and falling into extreme impulsive spending. I’d ask my parents for help or do balance transfers, only to end up in more debt. It was demoralizing, taking a toll on my mental health, and I felt like I was heading for a breaking point.

Working with Berkeley changed everything. What surprised me most was how comfortable I felt and the honesty of it all. I was able to lay out everything to B and feel that she truly cared and listened to me. I thought it would be dreadful since I always avoided my spending habits and debt, but the program was actually enjoyable, not a bore.

Now, I can actually check my bank accounts without being scared or threatened by what I see. I’m even okay with being in debt because I know I’ll be out of it one day. My life path feels smoother, and I’ve learned it’s never too late to take on your financial health.

The biggest shift? Understanding that money is part of life but doesn’t have to control me. I’ve learned ways to train my brain to think before I buy or order that $50 Uber Eats. I now know I’m not alone, I’m smart, I’m capable, and I’m doing it!

Berkeley is awesome to work with and actually makes learning about money and budgeting fun. It isn’t scary - your anxiety about money will 100% be more at ease at the end.”