I'm just terrified of ending up like my parents

Do yourself a favor - every once in a while - by remembering that YOU ARE NOT YOUR PARENTS. That little acknowledgement will make it easier for you to realize that the life you decide to lead is of your own design, not inherited. The fact that you say you're terrified is already enough to tell me that you're on the right track :) Now then, about the debt. I think pseydtonne hit the nail on the head with the whole pay down on the interest while your loan is still in deferment thing because the juice is flowing on that money right now, and it's compounding right now. If there is any ONE thing that I can recommend, it'd be that. A savings account would draw what, 2-3% max earned interest? While your student loan is costing probably 6.8%, and your credit card is... gulp ....11-15%? There's the math right there. Which costs the most? Knock out that credit and then start paying regular monthly on the student stuff. Focus on the principle amount and try to get that down, because interest doesn't build on principle that isn't there. The added benefit of paying monthly on the student debt while simultaneously living off of that loan is that you're closer to that money. Meaning you'll become more aware of your current spending habits and how they are directly affecting your future. Good luck. And don't let money control your life.