Hi to all, I am new to the forum and seeking advice as to where to get started. I am currently 15 years old going on 16 in a couple days and pretty much know that I would love to pursue a career in aviation. I’ve been doing research on how different individuals became airline pilots ever since I was in sixth grade ,Now my turn is coming, and the pressure is on to start looking as to which direction to take as the SATs roll around, I’ve been thinking over my options.



Would you recommend going into the air force academy?
And if i were to think about joining the academy would obtaining my private license before entering better my chance of getting a UPT slot?(just knowing a slot is not guaranteed gets me a little weary) And say I were to get a slot in UPT would I then obtain all necessary licenses there?

Or

Would you recommend taking the college route and entering various flight schools. I know this is the more expensive route which is why being from a middle class family I am not sure if this is completely possible.

I would defiantly like to obtain a four year degree in something other then aviation , just so I could have something to fall back on, which leads me to my next question ,would this greaten or lower my chances of getting hired? It is deff. far off in the future but I would like to have some sort of plan to go on, tips would be greatly appreciated on what to start thinking about


Thanks,

There is ton of advice that is all up to date on this web site just search for it. However I tell this too everybody get a 4 year degree in something other then aviation. If you can get your PPL then get it. This will allow you too see what flying is really about and will see if you like it. Don't go to one of those school with an airline name or a name of a rating. They will just rip you off and make you no more qualified then the next guy. Find a collage that you want to go to and have fun and stay out of trouble while you are there. Fly at a good FBO and get your ratings there. If the military interest you research it and talk to some military people. This in my .02

If you can fly in the military, I'd say go for it as your first choice. Secondly, a non-aviation degree will not hurt you in any way. In fact, it is good to have a second area of interest to pursue. Check out the home page at Jetcareers.com - Welcome for more info on the career.