I was 19 when I got my first cell phone, a clunky old Nokia, in 2001. My mom insisted I get it (and she footed the bill), as driving conditions can get really nasty in Alaska.
One of the first things I did in the UK was get a new mobile, just because I'm always running around and it's the easiest way of getting ahold of me. Besides, I have a good plan with lots of free weekend minutes that when used with a calling card, make for really cheap international calls.
~ShyViolet