Originally Posted by crewdawg52
Coryk,
Have you given any thought to getting that 4 yr degree, applying to OCS/OTS, joining a reserve/air guard unit (as a full-timer), and letting the Navy/Marines/Air Force pay for your flight training? That way you won't be saddled with the expense (upwards of $50k). Gain time flying with your unit, then apply to the airlines. Yes, you will have to give them some years, but it is'nt that bad ( you've given them 4 yrs already). Plus, you will always have a job to fall back on if you happen to get furloughed (have to keep that thought in the back of your mind. hope it never happens).
The military path is a good way to go. I was fortunate. I had a lot of money saved up. Made some good investments. I got some real good scholarships. And I jumped on the opportunity to go the civilian route. It is a little faster and certainly easier (and flexible). But if you don't have the money for college and flight training, the military route is a good way to go.
I personally feel an AA degree doesn't mean anything (in flying). There is practically no difference between a high school degree and an AA degree to the airlines (except that you are more educated). Since you know the importantce of college, you should get a 4 year degree.
The best way is to become an officer. You are 18, there is NO reason to enlist. Go to college. Get into ROTC. Let the military pay for a 4 year degree. When you are 22, you should try and get a pilot slot. I don't know the exact commitment (5-10 years depending on ROTC, AF Academy...), but continue to fly for the military for that commitment. When that commitment is up, go get an airline job. If the industry sucks, stay in the military. Pilot retention bonuses around year 9 get upwards of $25,000, and you could probably reach $100,000 around those years. Once you find a pilot job you enjoy, get out, but stay in the reserves. You will always have a backup if you get furloughed, and you will have an extra source of income.
Let me recommend with all my might that you become an officer, and not enlisted. You will get a 4 year degree. You will be paid more. The military can pay for your flight training. The difference between being enlisted, and being an officer (with respect to quality of life) is downright HUGE!!