I can understand where you are coming from with regards to advising going to university first in order to complete a degree, however, there are many occupations you can 'fall back on' without having a degree including ATC which from what ive seen can pay better than pilots.
I wish i had the finances to be able to fund flying training but unfortunately it just isn't an option for me. Im now working towards applying to become an ATCO which i have always wanted to do alongside being a pilot.
Best of luck in whatever you decide to do.