JLP over at AllFinancialMatters has seven tips to share with soon-to-be college graduates preparing to enter "the real world."

• 1) Get one credit card. Pay it off in full each month to start building a good credit history.
  
• 2) Make a budget and separate necessities from desires. Spend on the former, save for the latter.
  
• 3) Buy a suit. Blue, black, and grey are acceptable.
  
• 4) If you have debt, bring it under control by consolidating with one vendor at a low rate.
  
• 5) Start saving for retirement now. This year, not next.
  
• 6) Invest for the long-haul. That means stocks, not bonds.
  
• 7) Write a one page resume, but don't go overboard.
  What was the most helpful piece of advice you received after graduating? Tell us in the comments. — CAREY GREENBERG-BERGER

  Advice to Give College Grads [AllFinancialMatters]
  (Photo: Leonid Mamchenkov)