How about keeping the money for a rainy day? Seems to me that would be the smart thing to do, that is till you actually line up a job, I had a CFII for helicopters since 1982 when I did the add on. I would have been better served if I took that money and bought Microsoft Stock. Do what you want to do. You already made the decision on what you are going to do. So its really moot. I think you are looking for validation.