First of all congratulations on making your decision to become a pilot. The lifestyle is unique to every other job out there. You have to live it in order to explain it. Here is my advice: Go to college with a twist. Combine your ratings and training with school, in other words major in aviation. Some will tell you to major in something else (just in case).... I say don't listen to them. If your goal is to become a pilot make every bit of homework and each assignment in college something that will get you closer to flying for a career. Another piece of advice: Do not approach your training lightly! Go at it full speed ahead and put all distractions on the back burner until you get through. No partying, taking a semester or two off and no screwing around with things that will distract you. Your success will be directly proportional to your dedication and commitment. Go to an aviation college. E Riddle, Spartan and some like them are pricey. You can find quality schools with good programs for much less - Utah valley State College and SouthEastern Oklahoma State Univ comes to mind. Do not let anyone disuade you from your goal if that is what you want to do. Aviation is unique in that there are enough roadblocks and hurdles to stop those who are not totally dedicated to achieving their goal. If you are only 90 percent committed, find something else to do with your life. I have been paid to fly airplanes for 27 years now, and I still wake up every morning that I fly pinching myself at how fortunate I am to be paid for something that I love to do. You know you are blessed when you break out of the cloud tops to a beautiful sunrise and a breathtaking view Mt. Rainier which I saw a few weeks ago. Some of the beautiful things I see on a regular basis are akin to a religious experience for me, and It takes alot to move this man who thinks he has seen it all, but obviously hasn't.
In 5 years from now you will either be a professional pilot or something else, which would you prefer? Better get started!!!
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