Purdue is a great plan! Get a meaningful degree in something other than aviation though. Aviation will work but you need to be more well rounded.
Other advice:
Consider ANYONE you meet in the field may be in a position to help you. DON'T BURN ANY BRIDGES.
Keep detailed records of your work history and residences so you can come up with a work history from high school on when asked quickly and easily.
Keep a copy of everything you send to any employer.
Don't get arrested and stay away from people who may get you arrested.
Don't live with roommates who have drugs in the house. I had fun with drugs in college (1978) but unfortunately, times have changed. You can't afford to get caught with them anywhere around you.
Keep all you training records.
Have fun in college and remember, college co-eds are awesome but you can only really date them in college.
