Expert: D. Norkus - 1/15/2009

Question
Hi, I have many questions since I have just decided to be a pilot. I am a junior in High School and want to get a good college degree. If I want to be a pilot, which major should I do. Also, my eyesight is really weak but I wear contacts and its fine. I want to know if that will have an impact on my career. Finally I am a girl and was wondering if there are any gender discriminations. Please answer my questions. Thank You

Answer
Nayab,

As long as your vision is correctable to meet the First Class Airman medical standard of a distant visual acuity of 20/20 and near vision of 20/40 you will not have a problem with any eyesight requirements.
http://www.leftseat.com/far67.htm

Also, your sex is not an issue. It is illegal by U.S. law to discriminate in hiring based on age, sex or race.

Re: your degree.
You should major in any subject that interests you. An aviation degree is not required to be a pilot. In fact, many will advise against it in case the economy turns down, airlines fall on hard times (like they are now) and you ever find yourself laid off from your flying job. At least you will have something to fall back on if you get a degree that you can apply outside of flying. Here are some good words of advice on that subject- http://www.jetcareers.com/content/view/22/44/

Check out this site and it's career related links at page bottom for more career advice and frequently asked questions- http://www.PilotCareer.info

Dottie