Issue link: https://viewer.e-digitaledition.com/i/843963
18 | | Fall 2016 Don't carry a balance, it won't help your score. Also, use your credit card only for important purchases. "Avoid the temptation to rack up high-interest credit card debt. That debt can haunt you for years," says Wang. But if you must carry a balance, make sure the total stays under the 30 percent limit. Put systems like bill pay and automatic draft in place so you're always paying on time, pay more than the minimum amount and never miss a payment. "If you are able to do this for your entire college career, you will graduate with a sterling credit score," Wang says. "This will make it easier for you to do anything associated with credit, whether it's buying a new car, renting an apartment or getting a cell phone after your graduate." Avoid credit Avoid credit card debt at card debt at all costs. all costs. 2. 2. 2. Practice Practice responsible responsible credit use. credit use. responsible responsible credit use. responsible responsible 3. 3. $ $ carry a balance, make sure the total stays under the 30 carry a balance, make sure the total stays under the 30 responsible responsible phone after your graduate." phone after your graduate."