flyman, you're way ahead of the curve, don't waste your time at an aviaiton university. Go to state school and major in something non aviation, a lot of state schools offer aviation minors. Also you can double major in aviation if that is really important to you. they usually have CFI positions for their own overpriced aviation programs, and offer tuition assistance for employees. There are usually multiple flight schools in the vicinity of large aviation programs too. By the time you finish your degree hiring will probably be in full swing again. I went to ERAU, got a decent eduacation, paid a little more than a state school w/ my scholarships, got an airline job as soon as i graduated, and even have a minor in ATC as a backup....I still wouldn't do it again. as for tuition assistance at ERAU, it is is only offered to full time instructors, only covers 6 credit hours/ semester(2 classes a semester) and you are not allowed to enroll in more than that. So it will be free, but it'll take 10yrs to finish! feel free to PM me if you have any questions.