Credit card companies love to recruit college students as new clients. It seems every time you check the mail there is another pre-approved credit card application for you..

Far too often, college students get caught in debt up to their knees, but this can be avoided.

It is important that students know their limits with credit cards.

Credit cards can be useful in an emergency situation or to build good credit, if it is paid off every month.

But if you don’t think you can own a credit card responsibly, it is best if you don’t send in the application.

Those who have already gotten themselves into trouble, or fear they will, should pay the remaining balance and cancel the card as soon as possible.

Students who need help should contact ISU Student Financial Counseling.

Debt can become a major problem once interest starts accumulating. It can prevent a person from enjoying some of the luxuries of life after they graduate and begin life in the real world.

Next time you get an application in the mail saying you are preapproved for a gold card with a $2,500 limit, just remember, that is money you don’t have that you will have to pay back sooner or later.

editorialboard: Andrea Hauser, Tim Paluch, Michelle Kann, Zach Calef, Omar Tesdell