New credit card regulations Congress initiated last May go into effect today. These regulations are a commendable, common-sense measure to prevent the tragic exploitation of unwary consumers.And college students are on the top of every list of unwary consumers when it comes to credit cards.The stereotype is all too common and all too true. The starry-eyed college student moves away from home for the first time, and credit card companies prey upon their naivete, offering lurid pay packages and free incentives. Then, months later, that student is arms-deep in debt with no clear solution.We applaud the actions of Congress in passing legislation to prevent this story from playing out so often, but college students need to grow up at some point.Credit card companies have undoubtedly initiated practices that are predatory and exploitative, but it’s not the whole story. Money management is an essential life skill. In addition to the critical thinking and professional skills students learn at universities such ours, it’s imperative they take some measure of personal responsibility. Deceptive practices are one thing, but a student with three maxed-out credit cards — sadly, not beyond the realm of reason — hardly seems like a totally blameless victim.Students, like any good citizens, can’t let the government do their thinking for them. Keeping your credit cards and cash flow under control requires constant effort and intentional discipline. No law or act of government will ever replace those.So Congress’ actions are useful and laudable, but students shouldn’t get complacent. There are still plenty of ways a careless consumer can get sucked into crushing of debt. Don’t get fooled. Don’t get stuck. Be responsible with your money — so you can worry about tests and jobs and all the other stuff we have to deal with.—-Contact the Editorial Board at [email protected]