When Alex started college last year, he had a lot on his plate—figuring out his schedule, adjusting to dorm life, and trying not to blow through his entire budget in the first month.
This fall, he’s heading back with a fresh mindset. Here’s how Alex is getting back to school (and back on track), with a little help from his local credit union, Vantage West:
Open a Checking Account
Last year, fees caught Alex off guard more than once. This year, he opened an Essential Checking account1 with no monthly maintenance fees. It’s straightforward, and he can easily manage day-to-day expenses—textbooks, takeout, and all—right on his phone.
Start Saving with a Money Market Account
Alex picked up a part-time job over the summer and finally has a bit of savings. He’s putting it to work in the Launch Money Market2, where his first $1,000 earns more than a basic savings account—without needing a huge balance to get started.
Get a Credit Card That Works for Students
Between grocery runs and weekend gas money, Alex needed a more flexible way to pay. A Vantage West Platinum Visa® credit card3 gave him just that—plus the chance to build credit early, with no annual fee and helpful online budgeting tools that make it easy to stay on track.
Learn the Money Stuff They Don’t Teach in Class
No one tells you how to manage money when you’re signing up for classes. Luckily, Alex found Vantage West’s Financial Wellness Program, which offers members free resources, coaching, and guidance on things like credit scores, budgeting, and saving for the future.
Alex isn’t aiming for perfection—he just wants to feel a little more in control this semester. And with the right tools in his financial toolkit, he’s already off to a strong start.