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College is an adventure filled with new experiences, friendships, and challenges. But beyond the fun, it’s also a critical time to start thinking about your financial future. One of the most important steps you can take during these years is building credit. Having good credit is like having a golden key—it opens doors to opportunities like securing your first apartment, qualifying for better credit card offers, and even landing a job.
Why Building Credit Early is Essential
Starting to build credit early is one of the smartest moves you can make for your future. A strong credit history makes it easier to get approved for loans, unlocks better deals on credit cards, and can even influence your ability to rent an apartment or get hired. But if you’re new to the financial world, your credit history might be nonexistent. That’s where Step comes into play.
The Power of Earning Cashback and Saving Smart
Beyond building credit, making the most of your money through cashback on purchases and saving effectively is crucial. Imagine getting a little reward every time you swipe your card—those small cashback amounts can quickly add up, giving you extra cash for the things you love. When it comes to saving, the earlier you start, the more your money can grow. With interest on your savings, you’re not just tucking money away; you’re making it work for you, helping you achieve your financial goals faster.
Meet Step: Your Partner in Financial Success
Step isn’t just another banking app; it’s a financial partner tailored for students like you. With Step, you can start building credit from the moment you open an account. Here’s how it works: Step offers a secured Visa card that functions like a debit card but with one major advantage—it helps you build credit. Every time you use your Step card, your transactions are reported to the credit bureaus, helping you establish a positive credit history without the risk of debt.
But Step offers even more. They understand that students need to stretch every dollar, so they provide cashback on purchases. Whether you’re grabbing coffee between classes or buying textbooks, you can earn cashback on every transaction. It’s a win-win: You’re building credit while earning a little extra.
And let’s talk savings. Step offers high-yield savings accounts that allow your money to grow faster. Saving for a spring break trip or next semester’s tuition? With Step, your savings earn interest, helping you reach your goals sooner. Step is empowering over 5 million people to build credit, invest, save, and achieve their financial goals. They believe that everyone deserves banking that supports their journey to financial independence, and they’re making it easier than ever for students to start strong.
How Step and Going Merry are Joining Forces for Your Benefit
Step’s mission to empower students financially aligns perfectly with Going Merry, an organization dedicated to helping students succeed. Going Merry has teamed up with Step to bring these incredible financial tools to students through the Going Merry Marketplace. This partnership means that you can now access Step’s innovative services directly through Going Merry, making it easier than ever to take control of your financial future.
The Going Merry Marketplace connects students with resources that make college more affordable and accessible, and Step is a perfect addition. By teaming up with Step, Going Merry offers students a powerful way to build credit, earn cashback, and grow their savings—all essential steps toward financial independence.
If you’re ready to take control of your financial future, there’s no better time to start than now. Step is here to help you build credit, earn rewards on your purchases, and grow your savings—all while making it simple and accessible.
Ready to learn more? Check out Step or visit the Going Merry Marketplace to start building your financial future today.
Disclaimer: This blog post provides personal finance educational information, and it is not intended to provide legal, financial, or tax advice.
Daniel Bod is a seasoned higher education professional with two decades of expertise in financial aid. He began his career at Hofstra University in 2004, after completing his Bachelor’s degree from Stony Brook University in 2000, where he provided comprehensive financial aid support to families from diverse backgrounds. In 2007, he transitioned to LIU Post and advanced to Senior Assistant Director of Enrollment Services, dedicating over ten years to assisting students and families in various capacities. During his tenure at LIU Post, Daniel also earned a Master’s degree in Childhood Education. Transitioning to St. George’s University in 2019, he spent over four years focusing on the financial needs of medical students. Daniel excels in advising on loan options and empowering students and families to make informed decisions about educational finances.
