Thinking About Embracing Islam - Had an Unexpected Conversation

Salam everyone, I wanted to share something that happened recently and get your thoughts. I've been learning about Islam and feeling drawn to possibly accepting it as my faith. I'm Australian (with a Catholic background) and have a Syrian Muslim colleague I sometimes talk to about spiritual matters. When I mentioned to him that I was reading about Islam and considering converting soon, he was kind and supportive, but his advice surprised me. He suggested that before taking this step toward Islam, I should try to deepen my knowledge, faith, and commitment within Catholicism since it's "closer to my heritage." He encouraged me to read the Bible and the writings of early Church fathers. I didn't expect him to say that-I thought he'd be more direct in encouraging me toward Islam. Has anyone experienced or heard of something similar? I'd appreciate any insight into why he might have responded this way. JazakAllah khair.