What Was Your First Credit Card and Why Did You Choose It?

charls

New member
Everyone remembers their first credit card - sometimes it’s a student card, a secured card, or maybe you jumped straight into something more premium.

I thought it would be fun to hear from everyone about their first credit card experience:
  • Which card was it?
  • Why did you choose it? (sign-up bonus, no annual fee, cool design, approval odds, etc.)
  • Looking back, do you think it was the right choice?
For me, my first card was Platinum Secured Credit Card From Capital One, and I picked it because I wanted to start building my credit score. At that time, I didn’t know much about points & miles, but now I realize how valuable starting with the right card can be.

So, what about you? Let’s hear your first credit card stories!
 
I still remember the day I got my very first credit card - it was both exciting and a little intimidating. I was in college at the time, and my bank kept sending me emails about their student credit card. At first, I ignored them because I’d always heard stories about people getting into debt.

But then one day, while trying to book a flight ticket, I realized I couldn’t complete the payment without a credit card. That’s when it clicked - I needed one, not just for emergencies, but also to start building my credit history.

I applied for a student cash-back card (Discover it Student, in my case). The approval was instant, and I still remember the $500 credit limit - it felt like a huge responsibility back then. I was extra cautious with it: I only used it for small purchases like coffee, groceries, or online subscriptions, and I made sure to pay it off in full every month.

Looking back, getting that first card taught me a lot about financial discipline. It also opened the door to better cards later on, but nothing beats the feeling of holding your very first piece of plastic and realizing it’s the start of your credit journey.
 
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