Jennifer, I'm completely with you in terms of career direction.  I just graduated from college this past December but have been working in the mortgage business the past 2.5 years (read: flying a desk)... but the professional pilot is the way to go; and, like you, I find the idea of small trasports/turbo props/what-have-you in a *dynamic* environment.  It makes for a better pilot, right?!  Plus it's just plane fun.  I'm absolutely dying to see Alaska!  Always wanted to go; there and Colorado both.  The airlines I might hit later in life if I feel that route is where I need to be, but again, I understand the calling of smaller, more personalized transport.  I'm not in it for the $$, that's for sure!

At any rate, let me know about the Univ. of Anchorage - I looked online briefly at what they have going and since I plan on finishing my private pilot's liscense this year (december) I think they allow transfer credits.  I'm leaving my current job this year to go to a flight school *somewhere* (i've been looking at Flight Safety Academy in Vero Beach, Florida as well).  Gotta pay off a little debt first, so I can get a pt job and afford food & housing.  I'll definately be getting a student loan to finance the flying and academics :p

I have a whopping 3.5 hours in a Cessna 172sp, so I'm a greenstick with ya!

Cheers,
Jeff