Originally Posted by
nitescream
I hear you man! I have the opportunity to become a police officer, but I do not want to settle because I know I will keep wondering how far I would have gotten in this industry. I know I am still training, but that is the beginning of the journey. I have a few legit connections already due to other jobs I have had surprisingly outside of the aviation world. For example I have done a few oil changes for people and we end up having a few conversations with some and I would mention my future goals and one person happened to be a pilot and give me their numbers and few other numbers. If I was worried about the finances I would have just stuck with becoming a cop. I know finances will not be the best for many years as I try earn jobs and get with bigger companies. One thing is for sure, I will be happy during every second of it! Money cannot buy happiness. 
Go become a cop. And fly on the weekends. I still love flying but the state of the industry has made me hate it. I got into this industry at age 18, then flight instructed at a 141 school for 1.5 years, then went to the regionals flying a Dash 8 for $14,000 a year. I had 37 pax life's in my hand. Is that worth $14,000 a year!?!?!? I am already pot committed in this job. All my student loans and time has been wasted. I am 24 years old, have no money, no job, way too much in student loans, not even a glimmer of hope of getting hired anytime soon, and live with my parents. Sound good to you so far. This industry is a nightmare. I will never recommend anyone to go into this career. You simply work too hard for no reward!!!