Originally Posted by sourdough44

With the mention of a few of the ‘faster track’ programs, I would hold off on the idea of buying your own plane, now. There will be added expenses, and then it’s far from ‘free’ to actually fly your own plane.

I would work towards your private ASAP, then keep advancing. Once you get To CFI you’ll have an assortment of options. Keep your eye on what’s at arms reach, which is private pilots license. You plans can be adjusted some later. Put yourself on the fast track, you can get there if the motivation level is adequate.