Raleigh's Victoria Young Scores National Pay Day Ready Scholarship, Sets Sights on Wake Tech Education

Raleigh’s Summer Youth Employment Program (RSYEP) recognized participant Victoria Young after she was named the recipient of the 2025 Pay Day Ready Raleigh Scholarship. City officials said the scholarship highlights the program’s efforts to support youth development and recognize outstanding achievement among its participants, according to an article published by the City of Raleigh.

The scholarship is part of a new partnership with the Economic Awareness Council. City officials said Young was selected from more than 100 virtual applicants in the program and is one of nine recipients nationwide. She plans to use the scholarship to continue her education at Wake Technical Community College. City officials said Young participated in RSYEP’s Future Ready curriculum, which focuses on financial literacy and money management skills. The program is designed to help students prepare for financial responsibilities as they pursue higher education, including first-generation college students.

Victoria expressed her newfound financial acumen in words that resonate with anyone looking to get a grasp on their own financial future, stating, "Through this financial education module, I’ve learned the importance of emergency savings, the value of employer matching in retirement accounts, and the reality of risk vs. reward when it comes to investing," and reflecting on her personal circumstances she adds, "As a first-generation college student and someone who has worked hard to build a path forward despite limited resources, every dollar counts. These funds will help me pay for tuition, textbooks, transportation, and back-to-school supplies without having to take on additional debt or spread myself thin with multiple jobs," a sentiment shared as mentioned on the City's official website by many in her position, that reflects the triumph and the ongoing battle of resourceful youth in our community.