Originally Posted by vagabond
SkyHigh, I am not going to PM you thanking you for your efforts. I am making it public, even at the risk of getting slammed by others. Your perspective is not one accepted and appreciated by all, but I think your posts have been consistent, productive, informative and thoughtful. What makes your comments more meaningful is your own personal journey through the aviation career path. You realized it did not work for you and you had the foresight to move on to another career.
I agree, and I think this forum is the better for his insight. The recurring point that's vitally important for someone looking to enter aviation is the delineation between chasing a dream, and earning a livable wage.
A student who has the ability and intellect to fly professionally has the skills to "make it" in many other vocations. So the question is; Why would a talented individual pursue aviation when the cost of entry is high, and the chances of success are low?
I don't want to dissuade anyone from chasing a lifelong dream, but if they wish to combine that with a livable wage they should have full disclosure on some of the risks and obstacles they could face.