Dont worry about your age. I can gurantee you there will be hundreds of people out there wishing they were in your shoes.
Also, another point to consider, although the minimum CPL age is 18, chances are, by the time you have completed the ATPL, built your hours and completed the CPL course, you will be 19 or even 20.
Degree is a very good idea. I will personally recommdend you to do a non-aviation related degree as I think these degrees will not get you anywhere other then in aviation (for which you will have a piots licence to get into).
All the best.