Freshmen are scared of finance clauses, so the DU Involvement team (DUIT) offered a seminar that teaches students how to manage money.

Richard Pettis, a DU alumnus, who is with the Public Service Credit Union, spoke on why students should develop a budget now that they are on their own in college and responsible for their spending.

His message was, “Know your income and spend less than you earn.”

The years in college offer a great time to build credit. Petti advocates getting a free checking or a savings account, which will help boost the student’s credit. Students also should be aware that an outstanding traffic/parking ticket might damage the student’s ability to get a low-interest loan in the future.

Pettis does not oppose students getting a credit card. It is easier for college students to get credit cards than it is for most people. Credit card companies assume that students have more of a financial cushion because their primary residence is generally with their parents. He added a caution, though. Students should be careful not to apply for just any card. Pettis suggested getting a card with a low or nonexistent annual interest rate and to pay the credit off early. Students should shop around.

Students can check their credit score for free once a year by contacting the three credit bureaus, which are Equifax, Experian and Trans Union.

The DUIT offers resources for students, especially freshmen. These are DUIT@du.edu or Facebook Job opportunities are listed at http://www.du.edu/studentemployment/students.html or on the career center website at http://www.du.edu/career/