If you're coping financially college/uni is normally a great time. I see no need to rush finishing it.
Says he who spent more than 12 years at uni

.
I recall your descriptions of being messed around by bureaucracy in getting the bits of paper that would actually allow you to teach, so I can't blame you for changing course.
The fireman thing seems a bit out of the blue, but you sound like you have a viable plan there too. Either one looks good.
Better than going to that job fair in China!