A degree isn't any added weight when it comes to flying for a living. It however, provides security and stability. The choice that many young aspiring pilots face today is to pick one up or not. It all depends on the funding and how you can afford between the two (University & Flight School), your location. Agreed that there's a bit more life experience at college but then again it depends on the one you choose and what you part take in. When it comes to HR, an airline pilot is not differentiated on the basis of his degree certificate but the amount of experience and skill in flying. You could either get a degree (better if it would be a B.Sc or B.E 4yr) followed by a job and save up for flying OR invest all you have in a flying school (get a good cadet selection would be better), work hard and all the way up, build your hours and then leave a choice for a degree OR if you've got into a college that offer's flying by the side at a reasonable rate (PPL) pick that. Again, a degree is of no value in aviation flying and will remain to be a degree but there are many other reasons why having one in hand will keep you safe as well. If there's an opportunity open by the AirForce for you, the better!
It's all about making that right decision and factors that favor in. Not saying it's a disadvantage but simply a degree, isn't a requirement. Cheers and Good luck
