Here Today... Gone To Hell!

Hi everyone, I'm looking for advice on whether I should invest in a Gibson Les Paul or not under my current situation, and if so what would be a good amp to go with under $500cdn. 
So it's like this, I've been playing for a year now, and I started taking lessons several months ago.  I've been using my Epiphone Les Paul since I started playing, and I'm about to move into learning improv soloing.  By next yr I'm hoping I can purchase new gear; gibson lp, wah pedal, and good amp.

I'm just looking for input on whether I should purchase the gear or not, in terms of my standpoint.  ie - perhaps a person with only two years experience wouldn't benefit as much from such a high end guitar?  Thanks a lot in advance, just looking for input now because it's quite a hefty investment for a university student  : ok:

i too have been playing for just over a year, and from my point of view, i would say if you feel ready, buy some nicer gear, i think it depends on your personal skill level, obviously someone just starting out shouldn't blow $2000 on a gibson or whatever. But if you think you're at a level where you'd like something better, why not? Also, consider the money factor. Why not get it now while you've got the cash? It might be hefty for a university student, but you might not have the opportunity or the money to afford it later. Also, if you're more comfortable with a high end guitar, who cares what anyone else says? If it helps you to play better, you should get it i guess. Then again, what do i know? I've only been playing for a year...But im in the same position as you, probably gonna get new gear by the end of the year, maybe sooner. So for whatever my advice is worth....good luck!

Yeah NR91, your right one of my concerns is I'd just be labelled as some rich kid with the dough to buy expensive gear and no talent.  Haha but fuck'em, I'm anything but rich and I'd say I'm pretty humble about my skills on the axe  : ok: