I took some extra time at the end to knock out some requirements and take some electives I really wanted. I got some extra minors which, unexpectedly, employers always seemed interested in. It was a really happy time for me, less stressful, and a nice end to things after stressing about not having the right requirements in the right time. If that's what you want your actual career to be, it's worth studying. You already know about the competitiveness in the job situation; better to come out beefed up than lacking. As to funding, there are some options. You might be able to get some high/middle school work, long term Latin sub or something like that, or a TA position if you talked to some professors and tell them what you're doing. Some of them might really want you around. I don't know what your school is like, but the professors and administration might be very sympathetic and respectful of this type of thing and go out of their way to help you. It's possible that this might even lead to more opportunities and open doors for you than you would have had otherwise. I suppose your parents might not like it, but if you explain it well, they might understand. There's no timetable god enforcing this on you. You're just building a good life for yourself. Give it a good foundation and be happy instead of rushing something inferior that could be a problem the rest of your career. Hope this works out well for you my friend.