I hear what your saying. Some schools I asked about student loans were rather pushy and others kept well clear.After being involved in Aviaton for numerous years on the ground I have bitten the bullet and financed myself to start my CPL(H). So far I have logged nearly 100 hrs and have my R22, R44 and H500 ratings. I put alot of hard work in cleaning floors, washing aircraft, refueling and making cups of coffee to be lucky enough not to pay for my R44 and H500 ratings. It has taken nearly 5 years to get me where I want to be and probably another 5 years to get where I want to be.
I agree with some previous posts, start at the bottom, work hard, shut your trap, keep in contact with companies especially in certain fields you wish to follow and the world is your oyster. I have learnt some amazing things while on frost, scenics, pest control, heli-sking, fire fighting etc etc taking it all in.
safe flying
heli79