Thanks for your reply, guys.

The reason I want to get my private pilot license is because I will be doing Air Force ROTC at Syracuse University, and if you have your private pilot license, it increases your chances of getting one of the few pilot slots. It's also been a goal since I was younger to get it.

I live in NJ now and Century Air in Fairfield, NJ is the closest flight school to me. They are a Part 141 school with a good reputation. When I get to Syracuse, I would be going to Syracuse Flight School which is a Part 61. Does that change your opinion as to whether I should start now? I feel like if I get to school with at least some flying experience, it would be better for the Air Force ROTC program.