Question for professional pilots

[Barb D]

Alright, before you get the wrong idea and think big bad mama has the apron string wrapped around his neck, if he really wants to go into the military he will. He knows my feelings on the subject. He also knows that if that is the way he wants to go, I will support him 100%.

Now, having said all of that, it isn't an option, or would "choice" have been a better word? Geesh, I'm not trying to turn this into a debate. All I'm trying to do is get an idea of colleges.

I'm empathizing with you, not judging you!

 

[crazyme5kids]

Sorry, I didn't mean to snap. I just don't want this to turn into an ugly debate thread.

 

[grlzmom]

My 16 yo dd is also very focused on the Air Force Academy. Purdue is her second choice. Her friend is an instructor at Kent State and so she is aware of all that is involved and how difficult the process is.

While it would not be my first choice (dh served as an MD in the Air Force for four years and both our dads taught at the Academy), it is her choice and we will support her 100 percent.

Getting in will be tough but she thrives on structure, academia and physical fitness.

She is a junior and will be among the top three in her class, so we are hopeful that she will at least get serious consideration.

She would like to go to the summer program next year to get a taste of the Academy.

Would love to hear positive stories about Air Force Academy grads!!

 

[jwsqrdplus2]

Sorry, I didn't mean to snap. I just don't want this to turn into an ugly debate thread.

I did judge, and for that I apologize. Here is my explanation as to why:

I currently work college admissions for the Air Force Academy. In that line of business, I run into all kids of students and their parents. I have had many candidates who wanted the Academy more than anything, and the parents have thrown up every road block known to mankind including attempting to sabotage the interview. I have also had candidates who wanted nothing to do with the Academy, but the parents wanted it and were overly present in the process. It makes it very difficult for me to evaluate the student effectively if the parents are overly involved inthe process.

As far as flying goes, assuming your son is physically qualified, the military will likely be the fastest and least expensive (money wise) way to fly. The major drawback is the time required to serve upon completion of training (for the AF 10 years after pilot training which takes a year to complete, so he would be looking at a minimum of 11 years of service after graduation from college); training is expensive and the AF wants to get their money's worth. As Pluto2003 pointed out, the strictly civilian way is not impossible, but it is difficult.

Again, I apologize. I realize you were just looking for advice, and my earlier remark was anything but. Hopefully, this post gives a little more information. Best of luck to your son in whatever route he chooses.

 

[crazyme5kids]

No no no no............ It's me. Go see my post on the I don't care thread . I'm sorry I really came off nasty.

My son would probably be fantastic in th Air Force, or any branch of the military. That much I know. My concerns and fears at this time are my own. I'm sure you all understand that. If we were in a more peaceful time I would have no reservations about it. It is probably something we should explore more.

 

[lowie]

lowie, did you go to dowling? If so or if not why don't you like it?

i did, very briefly. so did my husband, although i didn't know him then (we met in florida). i just had a bad experience there, i'm sure others will say that it's a terrific school.