Christian102001

Does anyone know if the 911 gi bill will pay for flight training if it is in conjuction with a degree program. Like for schools like UND, Purdue, e.t.c.

GHawk

It will and is a great way to get the most out of your benefits depending on if you have a degree already or not. There's talk of Congress changing some of the wording to put caps on certain schools but it hasn't passed yet.

SaltyDog

This appears an obligated path. You will have just about turned 22 and free to pursue a solid path to flying directly post military.
What should you do in the interim? Start flying...

1. Be financially smart. You already seem to grasp that concept.
You wont be cool, but buy cheapest yet safest and most reliable car, no show car, cheaper insurance because not a expensive car. Buy things only when you have cash to pay it off. Don't go into credit card debt to get "want" items. Stick to need items

2. If do 1. You will be financially able start your private pilot license. Try to get to one of these USAF bases (Eglin for example) that has an Aero Club
Air Force Aero Clubs

https://www.af.mil/News/Article-Disp...-force-career/

if unable an aero club, work out a program with a local Fixed Based
Operator (FBO) at the local airport. Maybe get lucky and find a retired Military pilot that will give you a great cost break as your Flying Instructor. (I know guys like that). Build your certificates and ratings. You wont be the party animal, you will be a pilot getting experience as a young man making most options available toward your goals. You can/ will be a CFI/CFII/MEI before your enlistment ends. The CFI certification is one ticket post military to continue to build your opportunity for more professional civilian flying.

3. Work on your college as you mentioned. Try to get set up with an online college post USAF that will accept most of your credits.

4. See 3. above. Skip UND, et al if able. See if can get training in USAF that helps you qualify and earn credit towards your Airframe and Powerplant Certificates. (A&P) Not a must track, but can cobble a degree together with courses plus an A&P credit. Goal: Get a degree without spending years in the college doing nothing but getting a degree. More options and possibilities briefly explained here:
A and P License Eligibility Requirements

4 alternative: If have CFI certificates, try to get a job instructing at the school you attend to build more flight time while going to school. Getting paid plus using your earned GI Bill.

Admire your proactive approach. Dont let anyone drag you down. Lots of folks to tell you "No" My success is from this quote
Remember it, OK, don't, I boiled it down to "Be to stupid to quit"

"Nothing in this world can take the place of persistence. Talent will not: nothing is more common than unsuccessful men with talent. Genius will not; unrewarded genius is almost a proverb. Education will not: the world is full of educated derelicts. Persistence and determination alone are omnipotent. Calvin Coolidge 30th President of the USA 1923-1929"

Best of success in your journey. Enjoy the journey too
Saltydog

sourdough44

Make the best of your time in the A.F., get credits(college) wherever you can. When you can fit it in, get involved with flying.

There used to be military flying clubs on many bases, may of been cut back in recent times. When you are somewhat stable at a station, look for a flying club, in or off base.

Your plan in the original post may well be doable, for some individuals. You need initiative to see it through. All the best with everything.