Hey,

I'm currently 18 and in my second year of a 2yr college in GA.
My focus is on becoming a career pilot but I have a number of issues on my path.
Firstly, I happen to be an international student, and would have some diffuculty financing an aviation education. I currently dont know about joining the USAF.... I dont even know about work afterward.

Additionaly I really don't know much about the varying paths I could take to my goal. I've never been real close to any pilot, so I must say its all bit unclear at the moment.

I'd really appreciate it if I could know differences between going to an aviation college or getting a degree first (or a degree while in flight school??).... Also, how is embry riddle's capt program different?

I'd also really appreciate it if you would help me out with references on where to get specific related information with experience.


I do appreciate your time,
Moses.

  You are very young to be in the second year of college. I do not know if your statement means that you are in a General Aviation program or that you are in a college program in Georgia. If in Georgia, which program? There is a good one at the Heart of Georgia college and it's affiliate in Eastman, Georgia and Cochran, Georgia.  Go to the local airfield and network with all of the local pilots, particularly the older ones who own airplanes or who fly for local companies.  Most persons are willing to share information about their careers if you are really interested and the older pilots have probably followed different career paths than many younger pilots. Ask and you will learn.  When you have talked to enough pilots you can evaluate the information and make changes as your training progresses.   May I suggest that you try to learn only one thing at a time and learn it well. Accelerate your training to get the basic private pilot's certificate, fly regularly with the new friends you will make at the airport, get your degree (at least the two year degree) while flying for experience and pleasure. Once you have decided on the career path, accelerate the advanced pilot training.