And here's the flip side of the coin for all of those giving advice to people without a degree: What happens to them if they DO go to an AA WO, with the flow in their back pocket, thinking they can flow in 6 years, and in 3 years, the music stops? They are furloughed. Now they not only have no job, but because they listened to the lazy folks who just want to squeak by without doing their due diligence and have no degree, they also have reduced options as they find themselves suddenly needing to make a career change with no degree.

What then?

No, I say ALWAYS strive for that degree. Take one or two classes per semester in your current job, or even as an FO, and make an effort to get your degree. Yes, it will cost you. Yes, it will be a sacrifice. I did it, many others have, and so can you. Yes, I have a little less money now than I would have if I didn't so it. But I also have much higher earning potential. And I am also not saddled with AA as my only future legacy option. Or the airlines in general.