OP - You are just starting your career. I would recommend invest that $3500 into your employers 401k plan. If your employer doesn't offer one, then invest it in an individual IRA account with one of the providers like fidelity or vanguard.
If you are already doing it, then invest that money into a Roth IRA. Given that you are young and assuming you will be in a higher tax bracket in your late 50s, investing in Roth IRA now will be huge. All earnings from Roth IRA are tax free when you withdraw them.
Stop worrying about status in a hotel chain!!!