For the students looking at flight schools,

When I went to flight school I hated it. I got real upset with them for many different reasons. Some were justified, others were not. As soon as I got mad I lost out on alot of knowledge because of my poor attitude.

That was two years ago and today I work for what I consider to be one of the best flight schools in the country. Previous to getting on with my company I worked for AF. So between the FBO's, Cert. Factorys and everything in-between I think I have a pretty good grasp on the way flight training is.

When choosing a school do all the research you can, make a decision, and go. While you are there you need to understand that there WILL be things wrong with the program. Some of it will really upset you, as it should. But take the adversity as another tool, or peice of information that you can use in the future. Example: When I'm a CFI I won't say that, etc. Take the good with the bad and understand that in the big picture you will be better off having a few bad experiences. It will build character and make you not only a better pilot, but also a better person.

When shopping for a school I reccomend using this as a guide: (not really in this order)
1. Reputation
2. Location
3. CFI Experience
4. Quality of Aircraft

When I left my school I was really upset with my decision to go there. As time passes I am more and more confident that it was a good decision and money well spent. I grew alot as a person while I was there and gained alot of experience that I wouldn't have got (as fast) anywhere else. I also was lucky to meet some highly competent pilots that I am honored to call my friends. My only regret is that I didn't get as much out of that school as I should have because of my poor attitude. ...if I knew then what I do now...

(Sometimes I feel like I should call Jim K and thank him.)