A lot of the "big banks" have a $1,500 average daily balance threshold to avoid the monthly service fee. I don't know if that's too high for you; otherwise, they usually also waive the monthly service fee if you have direct deposit (usually require a min. amount deposited every month).
If you wish to avoid ATM fees, as SunriseEarth mentioned, a number of Credit Unions share feeless ATM-networks; not just the little dinky kiosk inside drugstores and gastations, but they also share "drive-up ATM" networks with other local CUs.
The "big banks" almost always (well... imho) have better websites; haha, I don't know if that matters to you. CU websites get the job done, but man they tend to be stuck in the 90s (although there are exceptions).
Lots of variables, if you have a nice computer just open up a Word processor and start comparing theme.
I'm wonder if anyone has any insight into which big banks are more accommodating in approving credit cards?
I suppose you could also consider Wells Fargo, since their secured credit card has a halfway decent annual fee; although I hear BofA graduates to unsecured more easily.
I wish Citi was local to me 
I would just suggest picking the banks you are interested in, and paying them each a visit. Explain to them your situation, and what you expect out of the bank you choose. I know banks have their set policies, but often times there are gray areas where they can waive fees, etc. I know it can be a full time job just going through the app process to find a job. But keep in mind, You have up until you receive your first check to find a bank, and you can always just cash the check if you havent found one yet.
I think finding the proper fit for you in relationship to a bank is equally(if not more) important than finding the right CC to fit your needs. You seem to have your head on your shoulders well. I am fully confident you can make a wise decision on who holds onto your money. Dont forget, it is YOUR money, and they are holding onto it. Dont let them take advantage of that. Best of luck!
I love the relationship between my credit union and I. It's easier to get approved for loan through them, and they'll willing to help you out if you fall on hard times. It doesn't help that they have donuts every morning. Lol
@Anonymous wrote:A lot of the "big banks" have a $1,500 average daily balance threshold to avoid the monthly service fee. I don't know if that's too high for you; otherwise, they usually also waive the monthly service fee if you have direct deposit (usually require a min. amount deposited every month).
If you wish to avoid ATM fees, as SunriseEarth mentioned, a number of Credit Unions share feeless ATM-networks; not just the little dinky kiosk inside drugstores and gastations, but they also share "drive-up ATM" networks with other local CUs.
The "big banks" almost always (well... imho) have better websites; haha, I don't know if that matters to you. CU websites get the job done, but man they tend to be stuck in the 90s (although there are exceptions).
Lots of variables, if you have a nice computer just open up a Word processor and start comparing theme.
I'm wonder if anyone has any insight into which big banks are more accommodating in approving credit cards?
I suppose you could also consider Wells Fargo, since their secured credit card has a halfway decent annual fee; although I hear BofA graduates to unsecured more easily.
I wish Citi was local to me
Your right about the $1500 but a lot of them also lets you avoid the fees by doing once a month bill pay, and direct deposit to avoid monthly fees I know citi offers this. You best bet though is to take an hour out to go online and research what the big banks offer for you to avoid fees. I mean I would rather bank with a big bank and avoid fees if possible. Even though I don't have chase the tend to approve for cc and other products easier if you have a existing relationship with them.
As everyone has said, it's totally personal preference, but I will go on about why I love Chase!
If you are going to be a student, the monthly fees are no worries to you as Chase is extremely lenient with them for students. IE I was in undergrad for 3 years with no fees, graduated and worked for one year (continued with no fees because I believe they hold it up to 4 or 5 so they assumedI was still in school), and now I am in law school and they continue to waive all of the monthly fees. I have never had an issue disputing any fee (only had to do this twice).
The online interface is amazing. Online billpay and the ability to see all of my accounts (credit cards, checking, and savings) is beneficial.
I love their secured message system and they answer within 24 hours, always.
And finally, like mentioned above, I believe they are about a relationship that allows you to grow with them. They were my first credit card and I value their cards over others because of their customer service. They have great recons and allow for retention bonuses. I think they are willing to take more chances with you if you have an account with them because they can see your monthly expenses and income.
Although many banks have the above, I have a soft spot for them!
If you are going to be a student, the monthly fees are no worries to you as Chase is extremely lenient with them for students. IE I was in undergrad for 3 years with no fees, graduated and worked for one year (continued with no fees because I believe they hold it up to 4 or 5 so they assumedI was still in school), and now I am in law school and they continue to waive all of the monthly fees. I have never had an issue disputing any fee (only had to do this twice).
The online interface is amazing. Online billpay and the ability to see all of my accounts (credit cards, checking, and savings) is beneficial.
I love their secured message system and they answer within 24 hours, always.
And finally, like mentioned above, I believe they are about a relationship that allows you to grow with them. They were my first credit card and I value their cards over others because of their customer service. They have great recons and allow for retention bonuses. I think they are willing to take more chances with you if you have an account with them because they can see your monthly expenses and income.
Although many banks have the above, I have a soft spot for them!