Originally Posted by
JUNEBUG82
Just to add another data point for your information gathering, I’ll share thoughts based on my experience with C5 and the Aviate. I chose C5 specifically for the Aviate (previously CPP) opportunity, and I would definitely recommend that path as long as you understand what Aviate is and isn’t before doing it.
Now, what is a guaranteed interview? It is not a guaranteed job, a preferential path, or any other inside track that gives you an advantage over other candidates; it is a one time opportunity to present yourself and show United why they should hire you. The four hours you spend with them is what you have worked your entire career for.
So that’s the interesting point for where I am personally; ERAU was announced as a partner university last week. Pending the whole application and interview process they advertise a CJO for United after going through whatever UAX carrier you go to that’s on the list. I’m hesitant because it seems like a good deal to get on board with before you leave university, especially if the partnered regionals were already on your preferred list and UAL was already your goal.
However, the ‘one shot’ piece of it makes it seem almost too scary to apply. Since it’s a big deal it’s suppose to feel overwhelming and uncertain, but at the same time how could a couple hundred hr Cessna pilot make that cut? They opened it up to university / professional pilot programs so I imagine the completion at that level is comparable but it’s an unknown. I have friends who made it to the Delta Propel program which is the same sort of deal with Delta and they’re all very sharp and deserving students, but the idea screwing it up and that sticking with you after 5 years and making regional CA seems worrisome.