Expert: David Bidwell - 3/8/2005

Question
Dear Mr. Bidwell:

I am a licenced commercial pilot with a valid multi-engine rating and have also completed my IFR written with plans to complete the flight test during the summer. I was also offered a position as dispatcher for Gander Flight Training, but had to limit my availability to the summer due to my enrollment in the Bachelor of Commerce Program at Memorial University of Newfoundland. My issue is that I am not sure if I want to continue with my university education.

I feel that university education is an asset; however, I have completed over 210 hours and feel held back from continuing my flight training and building on my hours. I have considered pursuing my Instructor's Rating but it will require at least a 3-month commitment. I have already completed 2 years of university and then took a year off to attend the flight school; as a result I will only graduate with my degree in 2008.

Can you offer any advice?

Answer
Hi Nisha,
You probably don't want to here this but...be patient.  You will need the university degree to obtain a job flying.  Have you considered transferring your credits to an aviation university such as Embry Riddle Aeronautical University (www.erau.edu)?  Attending such a school will get you all of your ratings and help you obtain a job after graduation.  Most of these schools even hire their students as instructors while they are finishing up their degree.  
Give this some consideration.  Good Luck,
Dave Bidwell