Chr!st almighty carbon, have a look at the PB threads. History has shown that those who believe that tripe are simply in for a reaming!
As for hope of progression. Check out the contract. you'll be a second officer for life. And make no mistake, S/O hours are virtually worthless. So if you see this "shortcut" as the answer then "Caveat Emptor". IMHO, you would be much better off taking your experience and moving up the G/A, Regional ladder.