www.freecreditreport.comA one stop shop to getting your credit histories from all three companies. I would start there to make sure they are all blank, except for your Chase inquiry.
You can always buy the score reports later, if needed.
You also have the right to a free report (and I believe score as well) because you have been denied credit. I would pursue that route first.
On credit and cards... credit is a tool, like a hammer. You can use it to build things and perform tasks. It is great when used properly. However, you can also smash the heck out of yourself and too heavy of one will tire you out.
On cards, I am very happy with my Citibank card, and you can get a variety of perks based on your choice. They also offer a lot of student cards, so that will likely help. Ignore the interest rate for right now, just get a non-secured card without an annual fee if possible, charge modest amounts, and pay them off.
