What should I do im 17

[UndauntedFlyer]

Coming from a college aviation program, I would urge you to seek a degree in something other than aviation. Reason being, you will only be able to pursue a flying career as long as you can maintain that medical. What is the fallback plan if you for whatever reason cannot do that?

If you are really a "prop-head" then a degree in Aviation Technology (A&P Mechanic) is still a fall back for a loss of a medical.

 

[pilotyip]

Or Aviation Mangmement or Dispatcher, then your degree and life experience tie to together for employment in the aviation industry if you loose your medical

 

[UndauntedFlyer]

Or Aviation Mangmement or Dispatcher, then your degree and life experience tie to together for employment in the aviation industry if you loose your medical

Pilotyip: OK on the dispatcher training if such a degree program is offered, but I think a traditional degree in Business Management is better than Aviation Management. A Business Management degree allows a person to manage anything, including an airline an airport or any business, plus that person has more training in traditional business classes.

 

[NorthShore]

The fall back value of an unused degree 25 years later is greatly over rated.

It was worth about 30K a year, but that was a little while ago. A lot of employers don't care where it came from, when you got it or what it was in, they just want to see it.

I would be interested in seeing 23 year olds with 4000TT, 2500 ME and 700 TJ PIC. Seems like a lot of time at that age. Not saying it can't be done, but I'll bet it's a pretty small reunion.

 

[FlyBieWire]

By UndauntedFlyer:

I agree that the pilot job (even B777 capt) doesn't require an education past the 8th grade (if that), so the 4-year degree just shows a person that makes the right decisions.

Maybe I'll just become a high school drop-out and go for the wide bodies ASAP. Looks like all I've got to do is learn to fly.

Thanks for the infor. I'll tell my parents tonight. Yipee!

Just kidding UDF, I'll stay in school!

 

[CopilotDoug]

Have a Plan B

I agree with some of the other posts. Get a degree in something else. If for no other reason, it stands out on an interview. I got an Aviation Management Degree from an in state aviation school. After school I was lucky enough to work for 3 years doing Jet Engine Parts trading and built my time up on the side doing flight instruction. I just got hired at a Regional and we'll see how it goes! Pass your classes in school, but be sure to make the most of it while you have the opportunity.