2) Credit & Financial Identity

As a newcomer, Big Banks might reject you because you have no history. You need a "Starter" strategy.

• Student Credit Cards: Banks like Capital One and Discover have cards specifically for students. They often don't require a high score to start.
• Secured Credit Cards: You give the bank a deposit (e.g., $200), and that becomes your limit. After 6-12 months of on-time payments, they give the money back and "graduate" you to a real card.
• Specialist Lenders: Companies like Zolve or Deserve use your visa and schooling info to give you a card before you even have an SSN.