Airline Pilot Central Forums

ElBow,
When I was your age... only 6 years ago, I was much like yourself. Very eager, and always searching for answers. I knew no one in the industry and had very little guidance on my beginnings. I'm always up for offering what little wisdom I have grasped in my short life so far.

I went to Riddle and am always up for a good chat on that subject. PM me if you have any questions. Personally I will tell you that if you have any scholarship opportunities, take it and milk it for what it's worth. I gave up a full ride scholarship to the Univ of FL because I thought going to Riddle would open magic doors.... boy have I learned a lot since:cool:

I agree with Lab Rat. At least I had sense enough to get a non-aviation degree that I can still use if an eye gets poked out along the way in life. Don't put all your eggs in one basket, especially in this career. I was also able to do my first 2 years of college while completing high school... the state paid for all that, so I only spent 2 years at Riddle instead of the 4 that most others endure.

I would also like to reiterate what was said before. This is a tough industry to make it in, and even tougher to get your start. Do your best to take out minimal loans. It may take you a few extra years to complete your degree and flight training, but in the long run you will be better off to not owe a penny when it's all said and done.

I currently owe $125,000 and let me tell you, life is no party right now, and it won't be for loong a while. At least I have no family to worry about. Those loans may offer a quick fix to a money dilema, but you are going to end up paying for it in the long run, and boy oh boy does it hurt.

Hindsight being 20/20 I would much rather have sucked it up and taken a few more years on my training to not owe a penny today. I would also have taken my scholarships instead of paying Riddle the $1100 a credit hour that they were charging when I was there (a 4-yr degree is 120 credit hours give or take, and the cost increases every year).

Best of luck in your endeavors. Like any other career this one has it's benefits and drawbacks, so keep doing your homework, and if there is ever anythng I can help you with, send me a PM.