St. Paul Teenager Built Credit Following Pay Raise

A local youth-led program helped 19-year-old Jackeline Mejia begin her journey toward financial independence.

Updated on Oct. 8, 2026 in Credit Cards

St. Paul Teenager Built Credit Following Pay Raise

Live Poll

Do you believe early financial literacy education is essential for managing personal debt and savings?

In 2024, 19-year-old Jackeline Mejia began building a credit history after receiving a pay raise at her job. The Saint Paul resident developed the strategy to facilitate future major purchases like a home or car.

Why it matters

Mejia sought to manage her own finances effectively after witnessing her parents navigate challenges with debt. Building credit early provides a foundation for accessing affordable loans for future housing and transportation needs.

At 19, Mejia has spent two years learning to track costs, profits, and inventory. Her proactive approach to credit aims to avoid the debt cycles observed in her own household.

The players

Jackeline Mejia

A 19-year-old Saint Paul resident and shift lead who is actively managing her finances.

Roots Cafe

A youth-led coffee shop and economic development program in Saint Paul that teaches business and financial skills.

The details

Mejia uses a disciplined approach to establish her credit profile by consistently paying her bills on time. She uses her credit card regularly but ensures the balance is cleared in full every month, a strategy that helps maintain a positive credit history without accumulating interest charges. This process serves as a practical application of the financial literacy skills she developed at the youth-led Roots Cafe.

Jackeline Mejia received a pay raise in 2024.
Jackeline Mejia worked at Roots Cafe throughout 2024 to 2026.

Money Landscape

Building credit as a young adult is a critical step in accessing lower interest rates for future borrowing. This individual effort aligns with broader initiatives aimed at improving early-career financial stability.

Establishing credit responsibly requires consistent on-time payments and avoiding high-interest debt accumulation. If you are starting to build your credit, consult a financial professional to discuss strategies for monitoring your reports and managing balances effectively.

The takeaway

The core insight is that small, disciplined habits like paying off balances monthly can prevent the long-term debt struggles that affect many households. Residents can track their progress by reviewing their free annual credit reports.