Hello, was just approved for Blue Cash Preferred and had a few questions. I am not sure if i am in the right place, but please bare with me here. I appreciate all of your help

After reading terms and conditions, GCs are excluded from applicable purchases towards rewards. GCs are also excluded from qualifying towards the initial "$1000 spend" to earn $150 cash back.

1. Does the purchase of GC's count as cash advance or is it simply a purchase that does not accrue rewards ?

2. If using the card to hit the $1000 for normal spend, could i redeem the $150 cash back reward against the purchase of a gift card ?

To provide a little context, i am looking to pay student loans by using "Gift of College" gift cards which can be purchased at toys r us.

Thank you for you help !