Do not go into debt for this career. You will need a 4 year degree for the better jobs. Flows come and go and there are no guarantees. Flying is not rocket science but it takes a certain aptitude. I would want to know if I had those skills before I signed my life away on the dotted line.

I would keep my job and use your time off to train as much as possible. Complete your private pilot at a minimum before you decide on this for a career (instrument rating as well if you can do it). If you aren't able to knock it out in minimum hours it's not going to get any better in an accelerated program like ATP.

Never hand anyone large chunks of cash upfront (which is exactly what ATP will ask for). Their tune will change quickly once you are in the program. They have you by the cajones and they know it. Remember, Aunt Sallie Mae will come knocking for her $100K (which will turn into $180K after interest in 20 years) whether you make it to a major or fly grand canyon tours for peanuts for the rest of your life (or drop out of the program entirely).