Indirect
If the story of an indirect path to a RCAF pilot' brevet might be permitted, here goes...
My uncle graduated from university during the depression when there weren't many jobs available. The RCAF, however, had just announced a direct officer entry program for recent university graduates. He applied and was accepted. Shortly after war was declared he was a Squadron Leader in the supply branch and he applied for pilot training. The powers that be found that he had a minor eyesight defect and said "No, you can't see well enough." Later in the war the RCAF did what services always do when they run short of cannon fodder and lowered the bar. He met the new vision requirements. He applied for flight training once more and was told "NO, you're too valuable where you are." He then took a couple of weeks leave and got himself a PPL (A major no-no). He returned to work and said "Now you have to consider me." They did but they busted him down to Provisional Pilot Officer and taught him to fly all over again. He flew a tour in 6 group, was awarded the DSO and rose to WingCo. After the war, of course, he reverted to F/L. He continued to fly and rose again to WingCo but the powers that be wouldn't let him in a jet. He then retired without pension or much else from the RCAF.
After an excellent landing etc...