Your Besh

01/02/2026

Tips on building credit in the US (from real experience):

Once I learned how important credit is here in the US, I started paying almost everything with my credit card as long as there was no extra fee. It honestly took a lot of trial and error to fully understand how the system works.

The very first rule I followed was paying everything in full & paying early. In the beginning, I paid off my entire balance way before the due date. As I learned more, I started scheduling my payments about 3 days before the due date & only paying the statement balance. I didn't want to overpay when the extra cash could sit in my high-yield savings account & earn interest instead.

Next, I slowly added more credit cards. I have five total now. I rotate four for regular spending & keep one dedicated to recurring bills. This helps keep things organized & keeps my credit utilization low.

Buying a house also made a huge difference, kept the mortgage for a couple of years & then paid it off. That alone gave my credit score a big jump.

I also regularly request credit limit increases, usually every quarter. Higher limits help lower the percentage of credit I'm using each statement which credit bureaus really like.

‼️Common credit mistakes to avoid:

1.) Carrying a balance just to "build credit". You don't need to pay interest to have a good score.
2.) Paying late even once. Autopay saves lives.
3.) Maxing out your cards even if you plan to pay them off later. High utilization can still hurt your score.
4.) Closing old credit cards. Older accounts help your credit history. Keep them open if there's no annual fee.
5.) Applying for too many cards at once. Space it out to avoid too many hard inquiries.
6.) Ignoring your statements. Always check for errors or fraud.
7.) Using credit for things you can't afford. Credit should support your lifestyle, not stretch it.
8.) Thinking credit is bad by default. Credit isn't the enemy, misusing it is.

While credit is often perceived as a bad thing, it can actually be used to our advantage as long as we use it responsibly.

11/10/2025

03/09/2025

Being sick while abroad often feels heavier than it would at home. You’d feel isolated & often makes you crave familiarity which magnifies that ache.

On the flip side, it makes you tougher than you ever thought you’d be.

Bangon besh, wa kay mama diri!

15/06/2025

Being street smart means more than just knowing your way around. It’s about awareness, quick thinking, and trusting your instincts. Whether you’re walking alone, commuting, or exploring new places, stay alert, avoid distractions, and always have a plan. Confidence and caution go hand in hand.

09/06/2025

Pasalubong isn’t something we’re entitled to, it’s a heartfelt gesture, not a requirement. Let’s appreciate the thought, not expect the gift.

20/02/2025

Preparation is key. Here’s a list of things to keep in mind bago ka mag move sa US.