Originally Posted by planecrazyjenn

Think about this post prior to becoming a pilot. Of you really have a passion for something, you'll do whatever you need to do to make it happen. I know this. I've put myself through flight training all while going through veterinary school. I've worked my butt off, and will graduate soon with yet a bunch of student loans...that I often wonder how I'll pay back. But, I know in the long run it's what I want to do. Life isn't always a bed of roses, especially at first. Your buddy may make 110K, but is that the job he really wants? If so, then I'm happy for him. He's found his nitch, and gets paid well for it. Personally, I would hate that job. You have to have a passion for what you do. Yes, new pilots make crap for pay. So do new doctors. Some get lucky and get a lucky break...but the average starting pay is about the same for interns (20K) And yes, I agree with every single person who says that's unliveable pay...especially when your looking at even more college. Yet, somehow it's still what I want to do. I enjoy the 120 hour week, non stop learning, and anxiety of not knowing how to treat a patient - especially in veterinary medicine - when the patient cannot speak. Emergency medicine is great. It keeps you on your toes. I feel the same way when it comes to flying. Nothing excites me more than to sit down to a good book, and apply what I learn in that aeronautical book to real world flying.

And yes, I'm still making the switch to flying. I'll always have medicine as a back up. Personally, I wouldn't mind switching to human medicine and trying to get with NASA. Baby steps first though.

Point is...if you have a positive attitude...and realize why you started a career in the first place...it may make those beginning years with low pay, and crappy QOL more tolerable. Oneday you will make a decent pay check, and things will fall into place. Your hard work will be worth it.