Invest on my own or stock broker?

[UofIAlum]

Keep going on your own. Most investment brokers are primarily salesmen. They will say this that and the other thing to get you to buy the investment that pays them the best commission. Then they will never look at your account again unless they are thinking about selling you something else. You may make mistakes on your own but that's OK: mistakes are the best teacher. You will continue to learn and do better over time. Relying on "expert" brokers to avoid that learning curve is very likely to lead to you getting played.

Until you choose something leave the money in a savings account. Interest rates are low right now. But the worst thing to do when choosing an investment is to rush your decision. If it takes you six months to pick something out so be it.