Expert: David Bidwell - 3/19/2005

Question
Mr. Bidwell, thank you for taking the time to read my quest for direction in aviation.  Not to bore you or tell you my life story, but I am 27 and married. Currently, I am enrolled in college and have an associates degree but in pre-health.  Everything I have is geared towards science but I want to fly the most.  I started working on my private pilot and ran out of money.  I checked out the Delta academy in Florida but it seems so far to reach.  By the way, I am located in Oklahoma City.  I know this is a little off the subject of just the fixed wing but I would appreciate in suggestions you may have.
Thank you again,
               Josh Caldwell

Answer
Hi Josh,
You have a good start with the Associates degree but, the airlines require a Bachelors.  You should check out the colleges close to you and see if they have an aviation program.  Unfortunately, it all costs money.  Many of the aviation colleges have tuition assistance programs. And many will hire you as an instructor as you are completing requirements.   Of course there is always the military.  Some States offer free tuition for National Guard service.
If you can find a way to get your CFI ticket, you can build required hours and get paid, even if it is only part time.
I'm sorry that I don't have an easy solution for you.  I took out loans and worked an extra part time job to get myself through.  It has been well worth it.
Good luck to you Josh,
Dave Bidwell