Emerging student leader urges young people to connect history, discipline, and decision-making as tools for a stronger financial future
FORT WORTH, TX / ACCESS Newswire / December 2, 2025 / William Lown, a college student in Tarrant County, Texas, is using his recent interview to raise awareness about the importance of historical understanding and financial literacy among young adults. Drawing from his internships in public service and investment banking, William is encouraging students, athletes, and early-career professionals to study history and build habits that improve long-term decision-making.
In the interview, William explained how his early experiences-from high school sports to internships in Washington, D.C.and New York City-shaped his belief that history, financial knowledge, and discipline are deeply connected. "History and finance go together. The past shows us how decisions ripple forward and are also repeated," he said.
Connecting History to Better Choices
Research supports William's views. A 2023 FINRA Foundation study shows that nearly 63% of young adults lack basic financial literacy, while the U.S. Department of Education reports that only 17 states require a stand-alone personal finance course for high school graduation.
Without these skills, young people face increased risk of debt, poor budgeting, and missed opportunities for growth.
William believes that building financial confidence starts with understanding how the world works. "You make smarter decisions when you have studied and understand the patterns that have happened before," he noted. His background interning with the U.S. Senate, the Victims of Communism museum and in investment banking strengthened his belief that knowledge of past systems-both economic and political-helps drive modern choices.
Discipline Through Sport as a Tool for Learning
At Westminster School and later at Texas Christian University, William balanced academics with athletics, which he believes plays a key role in developing structure and resilience.
"Playing sports or even backgammon all teach you discipline in different ways," William shared. "Sports teach you what staying focused feels like. Finance teaches you where focus gets you."
Studies from the Aspen Institute show that young athletes are 40% more likely to earn higher grades and twice as likely to attend college. William argues that discipline learned through sports can translate directly into stronger financial habits-such as consistent saving, risk awareness, and long-term planning.
Encouraging Young People to Take Action
William emphasizes that raising awareness is only the first step. "Start small," he advises. "Read a few pages of financial news and history each day. Track what you spend. Think ahead. These habits build on each other."
He believes anyone can take steps toward greater knowledge and confidence by:
Reading one historical biography or book every few months
Following major financial news headlines daily
Practicing strategic thinking through games like backgammon
Setting personal goals and reviewing them quarterly
Asking mentors or teachers for guidance early and often
"These are things anyone can do on their own," William said. "You don't need to be in Washington or Wall Street to start learning. You can start anywhere."
Looking Ahead
As William continues his studies at TCU, he plans to deepen his involvement in public policy and the financial markets. He hopes others will join him in building a generation that is informed, disciplined, and prepared.
"If more young people understood both our history and how financial systems really work, we'd make better choices as individuals and as a society," he concluded.
To read the full interview, visit the website here.
About William Lown Tarrant County
William Lown is a Tarrant County-based student with a strong interest in history, finance, and public service. A Dean's List scholar at TCU and graduate of Westminster School, he has held internships in the U.S. Senate, the Victims of Communism museum, and in investment banking.
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SOURCE: William Lown Tarrant County
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