But thanks to low interest rates and today's more liberal lending criteria, these days, students ages 18 to 22 can usually get a major credit card even if they don't have a job. The fact is, every major purchase made throughout your lifetime will be influenced by your track record for paying bills on time. Open a checking account. Get into the habit of maintaining good records and balancing your checkbook every month. Apply for a gas or department store credit card.
Low limits minimize temptation and help foster manageable payment habits.
Put apartment and utilities in your name. Don't let your roommate take over the payment responsibilities and put all the bills in his or her name. It's a chance for you to establish credit. Pay on time. Timely payments are more important than large lump sums received late.