You've heard it before and you'll hear it again: Stay away from the credit card solicitors on campus. But, if you're looking to build a positive credit history and increase personal responsibility and independence, a credit card may be right for you.

There is no perfect one-size-fits-all credit card, so make sure you pick the card that suits your spending habits. How do you plan on using the credit card? Will you be paying your bill in full each month, or will you carry a balance? These are important questions to ask yourself before you find the card best suited to you.

* If you pay in full each month: The interest rate won't matter as much, so take advantage of a card that offers rewards. Some student cards give you points for purchasing books, gas, or even groceries. Also be sure to look for a low or no annual fee.

* If you're going to carry a balance: Make sure to find a card with a low APR (annual percentage rate), the interest rate charged if you carry a balance. Many cards offer introductory rates of 0% for the first six months. If you don't have a credit history, you might have to settle for a card with an interest rate around 16% to 17%. You'll do best at your credit union.

Make sure you know whether the card has a grace period--otherwise known as a "free period." This is the time in which you have to pay the bill before the interest-rate clock starts ticking--if you do not carry a balance. If your grace period is zero days, you pay interest from the moment you make a purchase, whether you carry a balance or not.

Finally, it's important to read the fine print before signing up for any credit card. Watch for hidden fees--some cards require that you maintain a balance on the card or you'll be charged a fee. And create a realistic budget so you can stay out of debt.

Contact Robins Federal Credit Union today. We've got a card that will suit your needs.

Copyright 2007 Credit Union National Association Inc. Information subject to change without notice. All other rights reserved.