I don't wish to sound patronising here but your Mum is right!
How do you expect to earn your living? As an instructor? 'Cos in that case you need to have a CPL (Commercial Pilots Licence) (at least) and Instructor Rating. I don't know the exact requirements for these for Fixed Wing as I am Rotary but a search on these forums or general internet search will guide you.
There is not a lot of work at flying clubs; if there is, it will be very poorly paid (if paid at all!!).
Seriously, your best bet is to get a degree in a subject that will stand you in good stead as a career and consider the PPL later. A PPL (Private Pilots Licence) can be done part-time; hour or two a week so you don't need the full cost up front.
Please carry out a search here for job prospects, funding, CPL/ATPL courses - there's a lot to learn.
Cheers
Whirls