Does it really matter?
 

Hey all, my second post on the board here. Kind of downtrodden over the lack of response to my first post. I see that many viewed it, but no one has posted or contacted me yet. Either no one on the board actually lives in my area or personally knows any good CFIs, or they think my post is not worth the time to respond. So my next question is, "Does it really matter who I choose to be my CFI?" I am planning on making a career out of piloting and want to obtain all my ratings at the same airport and with the same CFI, if at all possible. So this is why I want to pick the right person. I think that personality in a teacher really matters and therefore, I want to learn from someone with whom I get along well. If I find that his/her personality creates a difficult learning environment for me, won't I be at a disadvantage? Is this a valid concern, or does it not really matter who I take lessons from as long as I pick up on things?

--Nick

P.S. I understand that in the real world of work, we all have to work with people that we do not get along with, but for flight training, should this NOT be a issue?

Hey,

I think it depends on your personalty. For myself I am young (21). I am very quite and laid back. Some or most people that works for but, I have flown with people who I think that being quite like that gets them kind of nervous. Age too has something to do with it. I had a guy once I was supposed to do a check out for and he came and asked me how many ours I had. I told him 875 and he said he didn't want to fly with some kid. He was a CFI too. Kinda crazy. So its really who you think you might be comfortable with. Hope this helps and when in doubt try to pick a cute girl to fly with.

Chris

Chris, I'm 22 and quite similar to you in terms of personality. Guess I'll just go with it and not worry too much about who I end up with, unless it becomes an issue. Yes, that would be the dream--to find a cute CFI chick. Haha. Anyone else have any experience with this personality question? Thanks.

--Nick

I would avoid flying with just one CFI for all of your ratings. For starters, most are looking to build time and turnover at your average flight school is pretty high as a result of it only being a stepping stone. Second, you'll learn much more from a variety of instructors who have had a variety of experiences and a number of ways to do things.

Having said that, yes, it does matter. You're spending a ton of money and you should have an instructor you're going to mesh with. I've had a couple that I coudln't stand and one that I ended a flight early because he had me so angry.

You are going to have many instructors in your career. Many will contradict what you have been told. You really need to be self motivated and read as much as you can. Soon you will be the instructor and expert. The important thing to consider (for a certificate/ratting) is consistency, so you will pass the check ride. Then you can really learn by experience. The license (certificate) is really just a license to learn.

Try working with someone you think will fit you...if I doesnt work out just tell them and move on to another instructor. Remember....when you are in training you are the client! Its your $$$...spend it how you want to. Good CFIs understand you are paying for their time and knowledge...if they dont make it worthwile to you (or if you have personality differences) get another one.

Welcome to the biz :)

Thanks guys for the responses and advice. And thanks to Irish for the welcoming. :)