Watch Demetrius’ interview here.
📍 South Side of Chicago | 🎓 Age: 18 | 🏫 Future: National Louis University
Demetrius Smith is already taking control of his financial future. He successfully built a prime FICO® 8 score of 709 in just five months! His interest in credit was sparked during a high school financial literacy class— a collaboration between Working Credit and Baker College—that immediately grabbed his attention. “Every day I used to just like coming to that class and learning about it… I’ve been very eager to learn about credit and how to make it work,” he shared.
That early interest quickly turned into action when Demetrius worked with Co-Founder & Director of Policy and Research, Ricki Lowitz. Demetrius began using a Chime credit builder card, transferring his own money to the card to make purchases—like buying a mattress outright, with no financing or debt. When he learned through his work and dedication he had a prime credit score, he was shocked. “It was just like a wild moment, like, wow, I have this,” he said. “If it wasn’t for Ricki, I wouldn’t even know I had a credit score.” His approach shows that with the right tools and guidance; young people can build strong credit from the start.
Now preparing to attend National Louis University to study architecture or mechanical engineering, Demetrius is focused on building more than just credit—he’s building a future.
💬 Demetrius’ Advice to Other Students:
“Just trust the process. Better things come at the end.”
🔗 Want to support students like Demetrius turning financial knowledge into real-life power?
