Adulting 101 2026- Full Listing of Monthly Sessions

January 21, 2026 - November 12, 2026

Zoom

Contact: Kathy Jamieson - jamies13@msu.edu; Laurie Rivetto- rivettol@msu.edu; Janice Zerbe - rajzerj@msu.edu

MSU Extension logo is on the top with 2026 Adulting 101 centered on the next line. Eight thumbnail pictures are in between 2 lines. First one is a shield with a lock in the middle and credit card above. Second is a sleeping person a pillow. Third is a healthy plate of food. Fourth is AI with Electricity around the word, fifth is a house and magnifying glass and a contract. Sixth image is a car with price tag, the seventh is a head silhouette with a gear and a heart inside. and the last image is of a cat on a hand with a heart. In the bottom left-hand corner is a QR code to the Adulting 101 page. In the bottom right corner is a 4-H clover logo.

Are you ready to leave for college or be out on your own? Are you prepared to do adult tasks and have the skills to be successful? Michigan State University Extension's Adulting 101 programs help teenagers and young adults demystify the obscure reality of being an “adult” through engaging educational sessions. Each FREE session is packed full of important life skills and tools necessary to live independently!

Cost: FREE

Join us Monthly for a new Topic!

Fraud Fighters:  How to Stay Scam-Free-Wednesday, January 21 at 6:30 p.m. EST

  • From fake jobs offers to phishing texts, scammers are everywhere.  This workshop breaks down the latest tricks and shows you how to guard your info, your credit, and your peace of mind.

Informed Renter-Thursday, February 19 at 5 p.m. EST

  • This workshop covers the entire rental journey, giving you a clear understanding of your rights and responsibilities as a tenant, so you can feel confident and informed in your rental experience.

Sleep Wellness-Wednesday, March 4 at 5:30 p.m.  EST

  • Daylight saving time can throw off your sleep schedule, leaving you tired and irritable. Join our Sleep Basics Workshop to learn practical tips for adjusting smoothly, boosting energy, and making the most of longer days.

Eat Smart:  Meals on a Budget- Tuesday, April 13 at 5 p.m. EST

  • Think eating healthy has to be expensive? Think again! Learn how to stretch your food budget, score deals on fruits and veggies, and find out if store brands really stack up to name brands. We’ll share simple tips to plan meals that save money and taste great — plus how to cook once and eat twice!

Cooking with Confidence - Monday, May 18 at 6:30 p.m. EST

  • From reading recipes to mastering kitchen terms, this session helps you build confidence in the kitchen. Explore simple ways to get creative with ingredients and make tasty meals without stress or waste.

AI and You: Smart, Safe, and Savvy - Thursday, June 11 at 6 p.m. EST

  • Artificial Intelligence is everywhere—from your phone to the farm. In this Adulting 101 session, explore the basics of how AI works, ways it can support you, and how it’s transforming industries like agriculture. Participants will also discuss ethical and responsible AI use, learning how to make smart and moral choices in a world powered by technology.

Think Before You Click!  - Wednesday, July 8 at 6 p.m. EST

  • This workshop will focus on smart ways to stay safe online — from protecting your privacy to spotting scams and handling social media responsibly. Stay connected, confident, and cyber-smart!

Roadmap to a Smart Used Car Purchase - Wednesday, Aug. 12 at 5 p.m. EST

  • Are you hoping to buy a reliable used car on a budget? Are you nervous that you may spend good money on a car that is a “lemon”? Are you wanting to purchase a used car, but have no idea where to start? Whether you are new to the used car buying process or it has been a while since you made this type of purchase, this workshop will provide tips, resources and strategies to help you make an informed decision with confidence.

Are You Ready? - Wednesday, Sept. 23 at 5 p.m. EST

  • Get ready for anything! This workshop will teach how to stay calm, make a plan, and handle emergencies with confidence and safety. 

Mental Health Toolkit: Everyday Skills and Resources to Help Care for Your Mental Health - Wednesday, Oct. 7 at 6 p.m. EST

  • This MI 4-H Adulting 101 session will equip participants with practical tools to support their mental health and emotional wellbeing. Learn ways to practice mental health supporting habits and explore resources to care for their mental health. Participants will leave this session with a wide variety of tools to help navigate challenges and boost mental wellness! . 

Paws, Claws, and Commitment: The Realities of Animal Care - Thursday, Nov. 12 at 7 p.m. EST

  • Before you bring home a furry (or feathered!) friend, make sure you understand what it really takes to be a responsible pet guardian. This Adulting 101 session explores the true costs, long-term responsibilities, and lifestyle considerations of caring for animals—from vet bills and training to choosing the right pet for your space and schedule. Learn how to make informed, compassionate decisions that honor both you and your future pet.

All sessions will take place on Zoom and will last approximately an hour. Your registration receipt will contain the zoom information. Please do not share as space is limited. 

Stay informed of upcoming events, news, and more by signing up for a digest, following us on Facebook, Instagram, or checking out our website.

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