Wow, a lot of you guys are starting training at a young age. I was like you guys - I felt a strong need to get my licenses young! Then 9/11 happened and thought a backup degree/career was the first step!
I am 23 and finished my Univerisity degree and post-graduate degree. Best decision I ever made! Now I can concentrate on the flying (with the help of a good credit rating) while working. If I decide I need to bail out of the flying gig, I will have the teaching to fall back on.
Mind you, all this when my parents offered to pay for my University degree AND my flight training.
Some advice for the young guys out there, get a non-aviation degree and always have a backup plan!
Cheers,
- TG