<prompt> Human: I am currently 30,000 in debt with Sallie Mae due to student loans. I pay 217.99 every month. Every time I pay, nearly 80-90 goes to the principal, and the remainder goes to the interest. WHY!? I know nothing about finances and this seems ridiculous. It seems kind of loan sharkish. Can someone explain to me what is happening here and if there is a better alternative?  <response>: I know nothing about finances and this seems ridiculous.These two are related.What are the interest rate on your loans? Calculate that interest rate as a percentage of your balance, and divide by 12 -- thats about the amount of interest youll pay each month. and if there is a better alternative?Yes, by paying more toward your loans each month you will pay them off faster and pay less in interest. 