> I got my first credit card when I was 17 When I was 16 I, unsolicited, got a preapproved Nordstrom's Card offer. Not surprising to me since I'd been sending

> I got my first credit card when I was 17 When I was 16 I, unsolicited, got a preapproved Nordstrom's Card offer. Not surprising to me since I'd been sending off for high fashion catalogs since I was very interested in the sartorial arts (in addition to computing). I accepted the card, they sent it, and I started using it. Mostly at the discount Rack, but also at the main store when they had clearances. It wasn't any more costly than any other discount place or thrift store but was of vastly better quality and the personalized service was simply exquisite. I paid the bill off each month without delay. This offer was followed then by a Neiman Marcus card, and countless other luxury brand cards. None back then wanted a SSN or credit check. They knew I had good taste. Sending those cards to me was a smart move. I still like these stores. My career as a fashion designer was very short lived though. Sad. I do OK as a developer.