Paying off the loan is a good move.My son did a similar thing when he started playing, ended up giving back the lot.
Plugging leaks is a fantastic idea.
Folded two big hands today against very tight players, conserved my chips and ended up 2nd in the ACR freeroll.
Find the right folds and your game will improve immensely.
A couple of rules I use, never limp, and most people have it when they make big raises if they are passive or very tight and you have to find a fold when they raise you.Checked your contributions so far, some excellent stuff. You are an excellent new member, I'm looking forward to more contributions.
Good luck in your poker and studies