My thoughts: AMC might survive, but I'd not buy it now. I'd pay off private student loans, and wait on public ones, just in case they get elminated (I'd guess 10 - 20K might). That's what I've told my two sons with loans. Both are, of course, still making payments as they have more than 10K.......to drive down the principle. Very low risk investment, with the added psychological benefit of seeing debt go away (also, good for your credit rating)..... I think motley fool stock advisor is a good investment for one year, if you want to get started with new stocks.....