Expert: David A. NewMyer - 11/4/2007

Question
I'm a junior in high school, and i am serious in becoming an airline pilot. I have looked a lot at colleges in Ohio (where i live)and i am leaning towards Ohio University and Bowling Green State University. Do colleges hand out special scholarships or grants for trying to receive your pilot's license? Is it cheaper to get your license from a company instead of a college?
Thank you for your time in answering my question
Kevin

Answer
HI,

With regard to your question about scholarships, I would contact the aviation departments at Ohio University and at Bowling Green State University with regard to what scholarships that they have to offer.  There are also some aviation scholarship opportunities listed at the following websites:

www.uaa.aero

www.avscholars.com

As far as obtaining your Private Pilot License, yes, it probably is cheaper to get your license from a private company than a college HOWEVER there are a number of advantages of obtaining your license from a university or college, not the least of which is obtaining a degree to go along with your license!  Also, the quality of ground discussion (teaching of flight theory) will usually be stronger in the college environment. Finally, the connections to industry are normally very good in the college environment, so, placement in the industry follows those contacts.  In the long run, you will be better off learning to fly, and earning your aviation related degree, in the college environment.

Best wishes,

David A. NewMyer, Ph.D., Professor and Chair
Aviation Management and Flight
Southern Illinois University Carbondale