First, let me begin by pointing out that I am new...but, I did read the stickies. Im not just the annoying new guy that doesn't read them. Rather, most would say I am annoying for a plethora of reasons outside of that. *silence* Moving on, I have a pretty unique situation. First, a little background, i'm a sophomore at the University of Maryland, College Park, majoring in cell bio and genetics. You could say I was the typical kid, who was always fascinated by airplanes. From air shows, to playing with die cast models, I was enthralled as long as I can remember. Even still, I absolutely love airports and envy the pilots I see. Anyways, I never really took the idea of becoming a pilot seriously. Instead, I mostly shifted between a lawyer and a doctor. Im sure you can guess my tentative plans from the major I chose. A couple years back though, I picked up a flight magazine that was lying around at a restaurant where I worked as a waiter. I saw an ad for Delta Connection Academy, and toyed with the idea. I was given a gift lesson for some holiday, and I loved every single second of the time I was in the cockpit. So, I dropped DCA a line...push led to shove, and I ended up flying there to visit the school. I was ecstatic with thoughts of attending and becoming a professional pilot. But, after realizing that it was around $90K, and that I wouldn't be able to get the loans, nor would my mom, my spirits plummeted and I decided, it wasn't a viable option. I figured, I would go get my bachelors, and if after completion, I was financially able to take it on I would do it, and end up becoming a pilot with a degree in CB&G. THis is where it gets a bit sticky. Randomly wasting time online, I found out that U Maryland, Eastern Shore offers a degree in Aviation Science. In hopes of keeping you in suspense, I've yet to mention that I recieve free tutition to any public university within Maryland. *Light Bulb* UMES is a public institution. Soooooo I can attend school, essentially free, and pursue what I have always wanted to do. What to do, what to do??? If I did decide to go, I would most certainly pick a second major, and continue with my minor in Spanish; and while I know this would likely extend my college time a year, I would be going for free. So everyone, Whats your opinion? Is it a good option. If you were in my situation would you jump at it? Is the program even worth it? Have you heard anything about the program or graduates of the program? Please! I need your opinions, and any information you can give me. Thanks a ton in advance.
-Jon