Me too. My J visa will expire in the middle of this May. I am very nervous about my situation too. I didn't talk to my international offce about H1B application. I got married but can't file my i-485 until I receive final approval from ins. I was thinking about using 18 month-j academic training first, but they told me after my j expire, I have to apply for another extension. I don't know if that will bring me another j-1 waivor, that will be a nightmare.
Thank you so much for sharing information. let's keep in touch.