Lez Trujillo Torres Featured in WalletHub on Building Credit Responsibly
UIC Business Marketing professor shares expert guidance on credit cards, credit history, and financial habits that support long-term financial well-being.
UIC Business Professor Shares Credit-Building Insights in WalletHub Expert Panel
Lez Trujillo Torres, Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Marketing at UIC Business, was recently featured as an expert contributor in a WalletHub article discussing the best ways for consumers to build credit. In the article, Trujillo Torres joined financial experts from across the country to answer questions about whether credit cards are the best tool for building credit, what consumers should look for in a starter credit card, and how individuals can establish a strong credit history.
Trujillo Torres noted that credit cards remain one of the most accessible ways to build credit, provided they are used responsibly. She emphasized the importance of making on-time payments, maintaining low balances, and understanding how the broader credit system works. She also highlighted alternative credit-building tools, including secured loans, reported rent and utility payments, and authorized-user arrangements.
In addition, Trujillo Torres encouraged consumers to carefully evaluate factors such as annual fees, interest rates, and credit limits when selecting a card, while avoiding the temptation to open multiple accounts or pursue rewards programs that could encourage overspending. The WalletHub expert panel explored strategies for helping consumers establish and maintain healthy credit habits, an increasingly important component of long-term financial well-being.