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Old 09-13-2019 | 10:27 AM
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Default Current undergrad looking for advice

So im an undergrad majoring in accounting in florida currently 2 years away from graduating. If I wanted to pursue a career in the airlines would an extra year of uni to get my macc and CPA be worthwhile or should I go straight to flight school?
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Old 09-13-2019 | 10:45 AM
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Don't know what macc is but a CPA is valuable certification... it's one of a handful of professions which can serve as a side-job while pursuing an aviation career. extra cash, plus if you stay current you have a backup career in case of furlough, medical issues, etc. Normally I would say do that.

But right now due to all of the retirements you don't want to waste any time getting your career started and getting a seniority number at a major.

I guess it comes down to risk tolerance on your part. That extra year at the airlines would be worth a lot of money down the road, vs. peace of mind.
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Old 09-13-2019 | 01:23 PM
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Originally Posted by BigKitten229180
So im an undergrad majoring in accounting in florida currently 2 years away from graduating. If I wanted to pursue a career in the airlines would an extra year of uni to get my macc and CPA be worthwhile or should I go straight to flight school?
A seniority number at an airline doesn't mean jack if you lose your medical certificate one day! Finish your degree and masters in accountancy!

In addition, take flying lessons on the side and get your private pilot license while going to school. In three years you'll be a CPA with a private pilot license and a better vision for a career pathway. BTW, there is a CPA who sells wonderful aviation study materials. https://www.gleimaviation.com/pilot-...898.1568409785
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Old 09-14-2019 | 11:16 AM
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Originally Posted by 155mm
A seniority number at an airline doesn't mean jack if you lose your medical certificate one day! Finish your degree and masters in accountancy!

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Welll.....not really true. Having a seniority number at an airline will ensure you receive a very substantial disability payout if you lose your medical, often times 60-70% all the way to age 65. Having a back of career is never a bad idea however
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Old 09-14-2019 | 11:43 AM
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Originally Posted by Bahamasflyer
Welll.....not really true. Having a seniority number at an airline will ensure you receive a very substantial disability payout if you lose your medical, often times 60-70% all the way to age 65. Having a back of career is never a bad idea however
That's only available at the best majors, and perhaps a few regionals. Some airlines have a 3-5 year cap on benefits, basically allow you to retrain for a new career.
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Old 09-16-2019 | 05:25 AM
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It can depend. Two more years going down a road you want to exit? That’s two years of going somewhat in the wrong direction.

Yes, you really should get a 4-year degree. You also should be starting flight training soon, rather than a year or more out.

Some people want to dream about the future, others work night & day to make it happen. What works for one, may not be right for the next.

I know a guy who just retired from one job, State, he now has as much work as he wants to do. These are areas where he has no hint of schooling, two separate career fields. Just saying, having a ‘backup plan’ is great, oftentimes not beholden to the framed degree in the wall.

If you’re serious about piloting, get piloting.
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