<prompt> Human: First time poster, sorry for any mistakes! Using a throwaway because of personal financial details. Im a recent grad starting a new job making 90k before taxes. I have 25k in student loans that start accruing interest at the end of this year. I have only a few hundred dollars in savings. Does it make better financial sense to pay off my loans as aggressively as possible while living paycheck to paycheck, or to build up a safety net of savings 6 months expenses while paying my loans at a more moderate pace? Its probably important to add that I live with my SO who could comfortably support us both on his salary. I also have parents who have the means to make sure all of my basic needs are met. On the other hand, Im working for a relatively new start up, so there is no promise of job security. What would you do?  <response>: Theres nothing stopping your SO from breaking up with you and your parents from getting hit with a bolt of lightning. When it comes to financial safety nets, you need one that you alone control. Youve got four months and change before your loans start accruing interest; build up your savings until December, then switch over and focus on your loans. 