Hey blaquehawk,
There is some really good info from the experienced guys in this thread. I work for a major airline in Asia and absolutely love my job. I'm 30 and have had a relatively successful career and thus have enjoyed every part of it. I haven't worked in the USA so my advice is likely not valid.
I am, however, interested for my own curiosity, at this point in time, what are your biggest concerns/desires about a career in aviation? Eg enjoying your chosen career, making money, spending too long on my low income, not getting employed, spending too much money.
What would you say are the biggest ones?
Good luck to you.