Expert: D. Norkus - 3/8/2005

Question
Dear Ms. Norkus:

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
"My issue is that I am not sure if I want to continue with my university education. "

I am not sure of your end goal in aviation, but any professional flying position will most likely require a bachelors degree. So, be it sooner or later, you will have to eventually finish it if you want to be competative in the job market.

Since I do not live in Canada, so I can't give specific advice about opportunities or routes to take as what is available in California may not be the same as what is available to you there. I suggest you ceck out these forums for further assistance, perhaps a fellow Canadian can post a reply if you put your question at one of these forums:

www.AvCanada.com
www.jetcareers.com
www.pprune.org

Good Luck