Originally Posted by
west
Hey guys, I'm looking for any insight into my future flying career. Thanks in advance for taking the time to review and respond, I truly appreciate it.
After a couple long, insanely boring years of business school, I gave up my future 9-5 desk job, and decided to chase my dreams of becoming a pilot (stop with the eye rolling, best decision I've ever made). For what it's worth, I'll end up with a degree in Aviation Management. I left the university and began flight school in January of '09, where my passion for aviation quickly morphed into addiction. I'm 21, have my PPL, am working towards my instrument rating, and completed a flight ops internship this summer with a major carrier.
As far as my future career in flying, I'm at a loss. Prior to the internship, I was mostly interested in flying for an airline, however, after numerous jumpseating opportunites, I'm not sure the airline lifestyle suits me. I understand the industry is currently at a low, and being that the cost of flying is so expensive, I've been considering other options. My ultimate goal is to fly, but at this point, I've also been considering joining the ANG (not to become a pilot). I've been in contact with a few friends who work in avionics at our local fighter wing, so I'm learning the pros and cons of joining the military. What I'm asking, is, from my standpoint, is it better to go the civilian, or military route? I hesitate to mention that I'm a woman, but I've been told it may make a difference, ha ha.
Many thanks if you got through that. I realize my timing in entering the world of aviation isn't perfect, and I know many of you will warn me, and I thank you for your truth. In reality, though, I cannot see myself working in any other industry... so I may end up broke, I know. I assure you, I've got a plan-- to marry rich (you can learn to love anyone, right?!). Only kidding, of course 
If you have the option, I'd recommend that you go military for that flying job. Civilian flying jobs don't really seem to compare/match military flying jobs when you look at the compete package of pay, benefits, quality of life, etc. Plus, veterans are still looked upon highly when competing for a civilian job in almost every job sector I know of, flying included. Just so you know, I've done time in the military and am currently flying for an airline.
As far as an "airline lifestyle" goes, I can't see what you saw being much different in times of good OR bad, but I'm not really sure what you saw, and what you did or didn't like about the airline lifestyle. Of course, every airline company is going to be different, as well as the dynamics of the job (e.g. international flying vs. domestic).
The fact that you're a woman could also be a big plus, from what I've heard, for both military AND civilian flying jobs, but I don't have any first-hand knowledge in that department--not a woman. Besides, I couldn't care less the sex of the pilot I'm flying with; I'd want you to be professional, knowledgable and competent. Just my two-cents there.
Your timing could very well be perfect, but only time can tell.
Best of luck to you!