Advice please.

I completed my 4 years Bachelors degree in the US, graduated and did 1 year OPT (did only 9 months), I had to come back early this year before the end date on my EAD due to health reasons.

My school gave me a direct admission to the masters program with partial scholarship . I can choose to start in the fall or spring and even deferr to a later time.

Now is it advisable to apply for the visa for the fall being that I have only spent 4 months in Nigeria or should I do NYSC first before applying to show non-immigrant intent?

Somebody from my school said to do NYSC first which I have registered for. Also, I’m not in a hurry. I’m still recovering.