My goal in life is to become a pilot aswell, but i went to university and did aerospace systems engineering. some along the lines that will actuall help you in your ATPL ( helps me alot). u never know when somthing bad mite happen and that your medical is no longer valid and can not be. a degree in this place will help you carry on earning. you will have a much better time at university that at flying school at that age.
the Mod root is the best in current times you can pull out when you want and not loose large amounts of money.