While legislation can help protect students, Sells stressed the importance of financial education. 100 course and Quest orientation program for new students. Some universities have implemented credit counseling and education programs. Sells urges students with a low income to avoid getting a credit card altogether. She suggests the use of a debit card instead.
Debit cards draw money directly from an account, similar to writing checks.
As for students who already have cards, she said to ask for help before becoming mega bucks in debt. PIRG gives advice for students considering the world of credit. First, students should shop around and be wary of sleazy teaser rate deals. Students should stick with one card and pay off the full balance every month, on time. Late payments can harm a student s credit rating which can negatively affect future employment opportunities.