wrxsteve

This is what I would do. Enroll at ERAU worldwide in San Diego. Get your flight training at one of the local schools. You will get better flight training experience than you would at prescott, ND, or even florida. You get to deal with every type of airspace, terrain, airports, weather, civilian and mill operations all within an hour of flying. I believe SOCAL is the best place to flight train with Florida being my 2nd option. And if you dont want to get an Aero degree, theres a ton of great schools just in San Diego. I personally know students who attended the main campuses from both UND and ERAU and If you would like to take that route instead just talk to me and I can help you out with any questions on that route. If you want specific information on worldwide route, again just PM me. Ill be more than willing to help you out. Good luck!


PS im currently attending ERAU in SD. The teachers are awesome! My aerodynamics professors is the lead aerodynamicist at general atomics developing the latest UAV projects. I have other teachers who were legal advisors for the secretary of the Navy. Accountants of Boeing. It goes on and on. They all have real world experience and Im learning so much from them. Plus theres a cool bar next door.

CaptainZ

Hello there,
I had similar concerns when choosing the college I want to go. I chose Embry Riddle, and I love most part of it. Here is some advice, maybe it will help you.

1st, I would go for an aviation degree, because it just shows your passion and dedication for aviation. Because I know being a pilot is the only thing I want to do, does not matter how hard it will be, it's worth it. Of course, if you are one of the guys who just kinda want to fly, then go study something else.

2nd, I would probably finish all your general education classes before coming to Riddle. It is not worth to spend the tuition for gen. ed classes. (I had an associate degree before coming here, and that was the smartest thing.)

3rd, it's a good thing that you are working on your private right now, definitely get your PPL before showing up at Riddle.

Studying at Riddle has been my best experience in life. I'm surrounded by people who love airplanes. I'm talking about everyone! We are pilot nerds, we laugh at stupid aviation jokes no one else gets. Sure, you can go to a regular college with girls and football, but which interests you more? I would choose airplane over anything. The atmosphere is great, small classes, small department, you get to know most of your classmates and professors. Professors are extremely knowledgable and super helpful. We drink, eat, and talk airplanes everyday.

And talk about social network. everyone here is your network. All professors know something/someone in the industry; all your classmates are future potential networks; plenty opportunities to see major airline pilots to come and talk about their experience! It's a life you would not get anywhere else.

You are smart kid, and you are planning your future at an early age. You have potentials to become a great aviator, no matter where you go, you will find a way to achieve your dreams. Good luck!

officialj03

Ottopilot,

I am a 28 year old with a college degree looking towards a career as an Airplane Pilot. Most of my background search on this profession has mostly been online. I really didn't see of lot of hard hitting critical reviews till I read yours. Your experience as a pilot (as mentioned in your post, you started flying at 17) makes you a very valuable person to talk to, and somebody I can use as a guide. Is there a way I can reach you and talk to you personally?

Let me know. I can definitely use some of your hard earned wisdom in my contemplation for a career in aviation.

BP1122

I started flying when I was 17 in high school as well. Started my private at a small part 91 flight school and then when I graduated went to Riddle to finish my flight traing and earn a degree. Did it cost a lot? Yes. Was it worth it? Absolutely! You do get what you pay for in my eyes. The training is fantastic, and will really prepare you for when you fly something faster and more complex than a 172. The classes that you take there also are great for helping you get prepared for a job in the professional aviation world.

chrisreedrules

I couldn't disagree more. Aviation is my life/passion but I don't have an aviation degree. Most of the better pilots that I know don't have aviation degrees. This sounds like something I hear most of the "Riddle Rats" say when they walk through the doors around here either as students looking to do CFI training or as CFIs looking for jobs. I know that being a pilot is the only thing I want to do too, but I'm not narrowing my "forward vision" to the point that all I can see is aviation. I've changed careers twice now and I can tell you that life changes on a dime. Whether you want it to or not. Putting all your eggs in one basket so to speak is never a good idea. I would highly recommend getting a Bachelor degree in a field non-aviation related. Ask any pilot who has been furloughed for any period of time. It helps a lot when finding a job between flying jobs or even as a back up in case you lose your medical. I would advise not buying into this train of thought. It will only serve to narrow your options further down the road. Just my .02

block30

I agree with chrisreed's .02!!


So,because a person doesn't major or even minor in aviation, that means they aren't passionate about flying? Please!!!

JamesNoBrakes

How many aircraft owners have a "degree in aviation"?

I rest my case.

chrisreedrules

I am honestly surprised that anyone still thinks this way given what we have seen over the past year or two in the airline industry. I think this kind of thinking isn't healthy. You owe yourself and those that depend on you a little more brains than that... With all due respect.

block30

Just to be clear my words,

"So,because a person doesn't major or even minor in aviation, that means they aren't passionate about flying? Please!!!"

were in response to the bolded qoute, not chrisreed (who rules). Cheers!

Chappy Sinclair

ERAU is pricey, but if you can score an ROTC scholarship with one of the services, or you already served and have a GI BIll to burn, it could be a lot more affordable. Plus, sunny Daytona Beach or artic tundra..? Both schools are undoubtedly quality.