Guide to getting your first credit card while in college
Before applying for your first credit card in college, here are some considerations.
9 min read
Sep 05, 2025
Erik J. Martin
Contributor, Personal Finance
EXPERTISE
- Personal finance
- Mortgages
- Housing market
- Home improvement
- Credit cards
EDUCATION
- Bachelor of Arts, Loyola University Chicago
- Dale Carnegie Training
Erik J. Martin is a contributor to Bankrate covering personal finance, including mortgages, the housing market, home improvement and credit cards. Based in the Chicago area, he is host of the “Cineversary” podcast and blogs on Cineversegroup.com and Martinspiration.com.
In addition to Bankrate, Martin has contributed to AARP The Magazine, Tte Chicago Tribune, Reader’s Digest, The Costco Connection and USAA, among other outlets.
Erik J.'s latest articles
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How to get a mortgage when you’re self-employed
The process of getting a mortgage while self-employed isn’t all that different, provided you meet the lender’s requirements.
7 min read Aug 27, 2025 -
Mortgage loan modification: What it is and how to get one
If you can’t pay your mortgage, you may be able to have it modified. Here’s what to look for.
7 min read Aug 22, 2025 -
Mortgagor vs. mortgagee: What’s the difference?
These similar terms actually refer to parties on the opposite ends of a home loan.
3 min read Aug 20, 2025 -
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Real estate commissions in California
A breakdown of real estate agent commissions in California.
4 min read Aug 14, 2025 -
Real estate commissions in Tennessee
Real estate agents — whether representing the buyer or the seller — generally earn their income through a percentage of the home’s sale price. Traditionally, sellers have picked up the tab for both [...]
5 min read Aug 12, 2025 -
Real estate commissions in Wisconsin
Real estate agents typically earn a commission based on the final sale price of a home. That’s true whether they’re working for the buyer or the seller. In the past, sellers were typically expected [...]
5 min read Aug 11, 2025