Awesomesauce17,

A little advice from someone who was in your shoes a few years ago and jumped back into them just recently to finish his degree:

Aviation degrees, such as BS Aviation Operations, Aviation Management, etc. are highly specialized degrees. Just like a bachelor's degree in engineering or information technology, there are not that many jobs out there which require a bachelor's degree in aviation science. In essence, many of the colleges and universities in the nation have simply capitalized on the fact that pilots need degrees to work for major carriers, (also realizing that most flight students want to be airline pilots) and have created this major around flying. A good major, yes, but is it a major that can keep you employed outside of the aviation field if you get furloughed, etc: not really.

I recently received $50,000 in scholarship money to continue my flight training and finish my degree. If it wasn't for the scholarship money, I wouldn't be able to become a pilot. I suggest to you that you go with the university that offers you the best scholarship package. Why? Because your endowments can only increase monetarily if you keep your grades up, are focused and loyal to your educational institution; and it's better for you in the long run to develop a relationship with the people who hold the purse strings at your college. [i.e., minimize loans].

Secondly: If you decide to fly, become an instructor at that college and somehow remain actively involved in your education. (Pursuing an MBA makes you that more competetive during an economic downturn).

Whatever you do, don't go to Riddle. I have a friend who graduated from there in 2002 or 2003, he has loans up the ass, about 400TT, and no CFI. Granted he's sort of a dufus, it's still not the place to go.

Remember, take in the information here presented by everyone [we do care about you, obviously] but make your own informed decisions.