PiperBoy
the only problem with a descent in cloud and going ahead is you must be really sure of exactly where you are and terrain ahead before letting down.
You may know the cloud base was 1800 behind you but thats no guarantee ahead
its a hard call but once in cloud its sometimes better to climb in cloud to the MSA than a wing and a prayer let down.
You mentioned that you were in a valley with high ground close by on both sides and were not aware of the climb. How do you know he had also not moved to the right or left of your track over the high ground if it was that close? With almost no experience how did you know he had not turned in that cloud a common thing for non IMC pilots
Glad it turned out OK and have only posted this as a warning as we have all been there at some time or other and I stress the importance of knowing exactly where you are before letting down in IMC below the MSA especially with high ground close around you. there are too many CFIT accidents
Pace