I am currently at AMS finishing up my CFI. I did the professional pilot program and started from private pilot. Yes I did pay up front and am doing it part 141. I have enjoyed the training I have received and have made it through my instrument, commercial and CFI in under a year. AMS also has some very experienced instructors that have varied military and commercial airlines backgrounds. I would suggest coming in and meeting with some of the folks there and possibly doing an introductory flight. Also you can pay as you go at AMS as well. If you have any other questions you can PM me and I will try to answer them.