We all understand the concern over being a 'glorified bus driver'. Guess your Dad knows more than you thought <bg> Their is a joke that says something like "Don't tell my Mom I'm an airline pilot, she thinks I play a piano in a bar" (G version)
I'm a cargo driver, and so I'm a glorified truck driver <g>. 16 might actually be a good age to think of this business. You will be 20 before we start seeing real retirments again in this profession. Then if things are like they are now, we will see alot of pilot progression again. So being 20 going into the REnewed retiremnt phase is a good thing. (that is the age 65 thing, the law just changed last year, used to retire at 60 now 65). Do not do anything you don't want to do (i.e. military). I have Military/regional/cargo background. Like them all, great people in virtually every segment of aviation. (General Aviation/Commercial Aviation across the spectrum and military) . Went to an aviation school, get a degree that can be useful if you don't fly for a living and that interests you. ( Mine is engineering). Even if you choose not to make it a career, will run into all segments even if you fly at your local airport on the weekends. We may argue like cats and dogs on some of these forums, but realize we mostly would all enjoy each others company in the cockpit and on the job. Enjoy flying, do not get discouraged (normal part of this profession <g>) Congrats on your solo!!! Your interests will develop as you stay in flying. Welcome aboard!