yes do not waste your time by taking the FIC...
I am a FI, got a job a in FTO, well paid, I fly a lot more than when I was a good boy improving my skills on flight simulator (what a joke!). Flight school may pay IRI/CRI course if you want.
Stay at home, flying hours are not important.
Companies prefer FFS hours, good value.
In the same time I get experience, relationship (very important), and maintain my skills.
Thanks to that, I wait for TR course (paid by the company) cause I met a friend.
FI does not help you to find right seat in a big plane right away, but indirectly for sure.
but like otthers said, stay at home, other youngs will seriously think and take the opportunity.