If you haven't needed a credit card up until people have been telling you that you need one, don't worry about it. You really don't 'need' one. The only reason that I got my credit card (aside to help with my credit score ) was for emergiencies-and that was at my family suggestion. I ended up applying for a card through my bank/federal credit union. They will be easier than any other place, especially if you have been with them for a while. Make sure you have NO annual fee. Aside from that, pick and choose.

The type of card you choose is dependent upon how you plan on paying your card and what you're looking for. If you plan on paying your balance in full each month (and they calculate interest based on your average daily balance for one statement cycle instead of over a 2 month billing period) then there is no reason for you not to do cash back or points because even though those cards have higher interest rates if you're paying off in full every month by the payment due date you're not going to be charged finance charges.

However if you plan on carrying a balance (ie not paying the full amount you owe) then I would suggest going for the lower interest rate so that you're paying the smallest amount of finance charges to the bank that you can based on your balances.

If you are a Student:

The only rule to remember is: Use your credit card as if you were spending your cash, then pay off your balance every month. If you do that, you'll build your credit score, and then you can reap the rewards from rewards cards.

The two best college student rewards cards are the Citi mtvU card and the Citi Driver's Edge for Students card. (However, the best card for you will always depend on how much you spend in various categories like gas, restaurants, entertainment, etc. since each card offers different rewards percentages in different categories.)