Go get a degree !
Hi Steve,
I've re-registered as "George" since I last posted..my FI's nickname for me !
Just to reiterate what I may have said to you initially .. just my view on life with hindsight, but with very few regrets. Then make up your own mind..your instinct is all you have to go on.
Go and get a degree! You're well qualified for it. Do something you find interesting ... maybe physical science or engineering subjects: these will put you in good stead for a flying career, or many other careers like law, finance and general management. Make a lifestyle choice between a more rural city or the big smoke, and consider some time in another European country. While you're at it, stay current, join the air cadets, the gliding club, and spend the last of your hard earned cash on a few launches in the summer.. if you go south I have fond memories of summer evenings at Lasham! Then take a view after that .. graduate job, postgrad qualifications or ATPLs, if you haven't already completed the exams distance-learning by then.
You have time on your side .. if you still want to be a pilot maybe don't leave it as late as me (32), but looking back I wouldn't have liked to have missed out on all that. On the face of it there is little to recommend it as you will be poor and it will be hard work at times, whereas you could go to Jerez and be embarking upon a good career by 20, as you say !
The feedback I'm getting is that whilst the airlines generally prefer to employ graduates, if you're sure of your chosen course, you can and will be employed as a pilot straight off at 20.
If you're really sure that is what you want to do, without a fall-back position ? If you are, I'll see you at Jerez in Sptember and we won't be looking back !
It is your life, you have a new map, resume own navigation, and enjoy the journey ..
George