OUR VIEW: Stay out of debt as a student

College costs a lot of money. While Utah State University, as well as many other of Utah’s institutions of higher learning, may be comparatively cheaper than other universities and colleges across the United States, it doesn’t mean paying USU’s tuition doesn’t hurt students’ wallets. While some students can graduate without taking out student loans, others can’t, especially if they don’t work full time or have a scholarship.

But another kind of debt is putting strains on students and hurts more than student loans. Many turn to credit cards to pull their way through school. While refraining from making a blanket statement, credit in the form of plastic is not the way to go for those in school. Too many young people, especially in Utah, are filing for bankruptcy. While credit cards are not the sole reason for filing, one can hardly deny they are major contributors.

Of course, credit cards can be used responsibly. Too often among students, though, it is the exception rather than the rule. Building credit is probably not a good reason to apply for a card. It can be built in many other ways, including making cell phone payments, paying utility bills and paying regular car payments.

Credit card companies heavily market university areas, making students more vulnerable to both getting a card and running into trouble with it. If people find themselves raising their credit limit or missing a payment here and there, it’s time to get help. USU has its own financial counseling in the Family Life Center. Credit card companies will offer debt counseling at a price, but USU’s is free.

However you do it, stay out of credit card debt or get out now. The consequences of continuing to spend can literally haunt you for the rest of your life.