Choosing your pilot career path..

[Aerocadet]

Good day.

I'm currently a college student taking up Aeronautical Engineering. Could I ask, what does airline companies require for pilot applicants? Is a college degree really needed?

May I also ask, would it be better to take flying lessons during my free time or after my degree? Hope anyone could share their career paths so I would be able to have an idea on what to choose.

Thank you very much!