Expert: David A. NewMyer - 7/1/2008

Question
I am 18, a female Malaysia. I am currently taking IBDP in Singapore (which is equivalent to "A" level). I am interested to further aviation course (piloting) upon finishing this IB course. However, there's a lot of concerns.

How should I start to prepare for an aviation course? How should I choose an university to study (or there's another way to do it instead of university?)? Can you give me the detailed procedures of applying to an university and any matters that I should take note of?

My IB course right now would take 2 years to be completed (2008-2009). I must complete it in anyway because I am on a scholarship. So, I have one more year to prepare myself to get an aviation course.

Because of financial problem, I really wish I can get a scholarship in piloting in order to further the course of piloting. I have shortsightedness at about 400 degrees each eye. It is possible for me to wear spectacles or contact lenses when flying? Or must it meet the health requirement without the use of spec or contact lenses?

I hope you can provide me information as detail as possible. I can say that I know almost nothing about piloting or the way to get myself into the right track of piloting. I would appreciate your help! Can you give me advice on becoming a pilot? the qualities, the benefits or otherwise? I would also welcomed your personal reflections or experiences in piloting, aviation course, or aerospace engineering.

Thank you. =)


Answer
Hi,

I really know nothing about the education system in Singapore....

As far as selecting an aviation program of study, there are certain guidelines to follow:

Consider the following factors:

Cost;

Location (is the weather generally good there and will the weather support a good completion rate for aviation flight courses?);

Size and type of aircraft fleet (commonly flown flight training aircraft).

Size of faculty; ratio to students being taught (do they have enough instructors?).

Curriculum: What is offered by the school and is it more than just flying the aircraft?  (it is important to know something about the aviation industry, how it is structured, etc).

Placement assistance....do they help you obtain a job after completion of flight training?

Aviation degree programs are listed by the University Aviation Association at www.uaa.aero   

There are two key sources for aviation scholarships:

Again, the University Aviation Association at www.uaa.aero

And, www.avscholars.com

As far as becoming a pilot, there is no doubt that many of those in the aviation field truly LOVE what they do...this is key to staying in the field long term.  Actually, this is true of any field....if you are doing what you love, it makes it easier to stay in a field even during rough times.

All the best to you in your selection of an aviation program.

Sincerely,

David A. NewMyer