On my first day in university, ridiculously, those so-called student ambassadors were not the first to approach me; instead, those staff from Hang Seng Bank got close and asked me a question. ‘Have you applied for a credit card? It is necessary to have one, especially when you become an adult.’ There was a queue behind the counter. When it was my turn, I gave them what they needed, the whole process took ten minutes and I officially got my first credit card. I have never ever expected and imagined that my life was going to be (nearly) ruined after that 10 minutes.

Obviously, the reason why I applied for credit card is simply because of the easy application procedure. Say, I was not required to provide any proof of income. All I needed to do was to give them my student ID card and address and fill in an application form. The staff there showed me a pamphlet with the special offers, like getting a 10 percent discount when buying selected items in Gigasports, I.T. and IZZUE using the credit card. Apart from that, there is no service charge and I can earn $1 cash dollar for every $250 spending. These are really attractive so I put my signature with no doubt. When I made that decision, some benefits of having a credit card were floated in my mind, like when I forget to bring cash, a credit card is always a help. I can also use the cash dollar to be a smart consumer. Lots of fees, like tuition fee and mobile service fee and can be paid on the Internet by using the credit card. Initially, I could control myself and everything went well (just because I bought a piece of head band which costs $69 only). However, those days were gone and this evil card is dragging me to hell.

I am severely addicted to this tool and I have to admit that I have overspent. When spending with cash, I am able to actually see how much am I exactly using. However, when making my payments with credit card, it's easy to overspend because no money actually changes hands, and I don't really feel the consequences of spending extravagantly. When I use my credit card, I feel like not sacrificing any of my hard-earned cash at that moment. My drawer cannot be closed because it is messy and lots of clothes are bought. There are 12 plain tees, in black, grey, white and blue, with the same size and cutting. I found out I have not made careful consideration before purchasing. Many experts have said credit card changes human being’s attitude and value. Now I come to trust their opinion.

My credit card debts are snowballing. When I peeped total amount of the latest bank statement, I bowed my head, heaved a sigh. It has accumulated to five thousand dollars and the interest payment is about $150. What I am currently facing is exactly the same as the US Government. The Gross Domestic Product is less than its liabilities. In other words, my income cannot cover my debts. The attractive enjoyments and the convenience have blinded me. I am astonished and in great panic after checking the interest rate. The finance charge is 2.49% per month and 33% per year. Can anyone give me a helping hand?

I want to make a change with great determination in order to get rid of this fatal habit. Getting a secure part-time job is necessary so that I can consistently repay one to two thousand dollars instead of paying merely the minimum amount due every month. The next is to note down what I must buy and purchase them using cash. Only through building up a good attitude and habit can help me say farewell to the detestable credit card debts.