(Btw, ask whatever you'd...if I have a theory on it I'll share... I'm not going to allow a person that ask for insight to drive off a cliff, if I can help 'em navigate around the drop)
Reading this for a while. Sounds like you're an expert. I'm in the same boat here. No credit 26 y/o grad. Been lucky to be approved for a secure card with BofA. I save at least $100 a month
OP, has your friend applied for an unsecured card?
I was approved for two unsecured cards on my 18th birthday with no credit. (USAA and CapOne Journey). Discover has also been known to approve people with no credit for an unsecured card.
