Applying for Credit Cards is not like Applying to College

So it's been months since I've posted, but something happened today that is far too relevant for this blog. As I've been a working girl and can honestly say I'm at the point where I SHOULD be completely financially independent I do have to admit that my father has been helping out by way of an "emergencies only" amex - which translates to everything I buy on Gilt was needed for an emergency.

We had 'The Talk'. It's time for me to get my own credit card. I compare this feeling to that of getting braces - at first it was exciting because all my friends had them, but soon after the novelty faded I was left with cold sores and a horrible smile.

Naturally I spent the majority of my morning at work researching all the different types of cards. I want one that can get me maximum milage on my airlines so I narrowed it down to my top three. For US Airways I want to get into the world program Visa card, but if I don't qualify they give me a more standard one. It's like applying for Huntsman and just getting into Wharton - not bad, but I'm special and I want the top of the line!

After galavanting around with platinum in my purse I don't feel right about settling for the run-of-the-mill card. But then I had to face my own reality when filling in my annual salary, I probably can't afford a fancy piece of plastic. So I applied to my top 3.

I let my dad know via txt that I had taken initiative and called it a day.

He called minutes later in a panic. Apparently when you apply for a card you are automatically enrolled once you are approved! WTF?! How does that logic work? So now my credit gets screwed because I wanted to weigh my options. I don't even have room in my wallet for 3 more cards. It's like I applied early decision at 3 schools and this is my punishment if I get into all three. I just hope I get a few free flights out of it!