At 27 with a degree in mechanical engineering and a HND in aeronautical engineering, I have managed to start a career as a project/systems engineer that gave me a small head start in salary. Being in this situation has made me feel more secure about my future as a ‘pilot to be’ or not and also put me in a more financial safe position to pursue my ambition to be a pilot. The downside is that it is 6 or more years (after paying off uni debts and getting your own house) less of my life that I will not be a pilot. But in return you will always have something to fall back on, a great experience of uni life which will always be remembered, and now that I am currently studying for my ATPLs the degree has given me a quicker and easier understanding of most of the engineering related subjects. I would not change my route if I could do it all again.
Hope this helps you make a decision
mint