I would suggest that if you do pursue an airline career (regional to start, hopefully winding up at a major) make an effort to find a second line of work as a back-up. It will save you during downturns or any unexpected hiccups along the way. There are a smattering of doctors, dentists and other professionals as well as business owners who also fly for a living. In the end, you have to be as fulfilled as you possibly can with your career choice or else you risk a life of regret. Lots of people making tons of money sitting behind a desk or doing something else more lucrative but hating going to work every morning. Granted, many of us have to make certain choices due to circumstances (family, health, finances etc).