MrAndy,
I'm fortunate enough that I can consider other ways to get into aviation, just want to make sure I've pro and conned every option before I make my choices. So far it seems the only pro is good trainers. You're right, the negativity is rather repelling too when these are the people I might hope to learn from one day. Although I must confess I'm a little confused by the hostility.
Thank you for your encouraging words, it's something I really wanted to get into so I just want to make sure I don't mess up my chances.