Well, I can insert my $.02 here I guess... I don't want to be too negative about the airline industry - you've got to take the good with the bad. There are some challenges, but then again it's better than being stuck in an office all day. That being said, I'm getting out, at least for now. I'm going back to my previous career making about what I made when I got out of that field, which is almost double what I made as a regional FO. I'm hopeful that things in this industry will work themselves out, but I'm not holding my breath. I plan on getting my flying fix by instructing on nights and weekends and maybe joining a flying club. The other thing to consider is that someday you're going to have to pay the student loans back. Good luck if you didn't marry into money. See the other thread on student loans for some numbers on that subject. I hope all goes well for anybody getting into aviation. Do it safe, but try to do it as cheaply as possible. The Army will teach you to fly helicopters for a 6 year commitment - that way you know you'll be flying for at least 6 years anyway.....