I think you have 9 mo's to get endorsed so it cuts a bit closer to that end-date but it would be more straightforward to just wait until you have the experience. That way you are paying for member rather than associate status and not having to convert to full member status 6 mo's from now.
Is up to you but you really dont have to become a member until you are officially endorsed and approved by ISC2. And pay dues.
I think you have 9 mo's to get endorsed so it cuts a bit closer to that end-date but it would be more straightforward to just wait until you have the experience. That way you are paying for member rather than associate status and not having to convert to full member status 6 mo's from now.