Though I can’t replicate it, it is definitely helpful advise. Thanks so much!
For example, I never really thought much about the differences between local language schools and university classes for example (I recently applied for university level classes actually, hope to hear if I’m accepted next month). For my case, I hope to get some support on pronunciation from a professional through these classes, for when I start to intensify speech training. Speaking is normal my achilles heel. Because of your advice I still plan to do that for a start (but after I got at least reading proficiency at that level, so I’m not dealing with having to learn every aspect of a new word in class, just how to pronounce). I can imagine now classes become more futile if you got the basics (for pronunciation), as fluency and advanced Chinese is not my goal. I expect that after HSK3 you’ll have had nearly all frequent syllables anyway? The few rare ones I am sure you can learn on your own.
Immersions is a bit of a problem for me (my job ties me to Europe for the next ~2 years, with not much leave). But your comment on focussing on being able to have conversations with normal people got me thinking a lot. I will try to find more ways to incorporate that. My plan was after reaching HSK2 or 3 to try and read some daily news in Chinese, but that is quite formal I imagine. Perhaps try to join some group chats / discussion boards maybe (maybe install tantan and set the location to China, perfect way to talk with new people all the time 
). I’ll give it some thought!