<prompt> Human: Okay, Im currently a sophomore at Clemson Go Tigers.Anyways, Im currently working close to full time and going to school. I have about 4000 saved and should have plenty more coming.I currently have about 10K in loans and HOPEFULLY will never have to take any more because of this job.Anyways, Im looking at throwing about 3000 in an IRA before the end of the year because of the compound interest and for after college investment.My question is:Should I throw that money at the student loans or put it in an IRA?Is the interest worth having that debt when I graduate?  <response>: Easy tiger. You are young and life is full of possibilities in the next few years of your life. Id hold onto the cash and just wait it out. When you get out and get a job, 3k isnt going to look as big as it does now. If you dont need it by then, great throw it at the debt. If you do need it before you get a job it will help you from getting into MORE debt or incurring ridiculous fees. Nothing wrong with sitting on it for a couple years. The gains will be minimal compared to the first real paycheck you cash. 