Which road to take?

[future captain]

Hi guys,

I have been on this forum for over 6 years now, mostly as a reader rather than a poster...I joined when I was doing my GCSE's if I remember correctly, and since then have completed my A Levels and a degree in Computer Science.

Upon graduation (month later) I was fortunate that I was in a position to pick from several confirmed job offers. I am currently working in the UK as a graduate software developer, earning just over 25k.

However for as long as I can remember I have wanted to be a commercial pilot, and when I bump into old friends the first thing they always ask is, "You a pilot yet". Although I enjoy software development, I really want to give the pilot "thing" a shot.

I have a place on a masters course (2011) at a reputable university in the UK for a one year MSc in a Mathematical field that I am interested in.

I am really confused on what to do though...I want to continue working for at least a year since I am gaining good experience at the moment. But is it worth me doing the masters I am interested in and then thinking about pilot training? Or leave the masters? (This option I am finding hard since the area is something that is of interest to me).

I am fairly confident I could return to work after the masters, but this is where I am confused...Should I return to work and go modular while trying to hold down a Job (how easy is this?) or look to go integrated, although the financial burden is worrying.

P.s I am 22 at the moment.

Thanks in advance.

[Poeli]

I suggest you read the modular vs integrated topic. It seems to me that modular would suit you the best.

[RichardH]

Having come from a similar work background to you I should like to offer the following thoughts. You seem to be thinking this through in a sensible manner and you are right to be concerned about the finance aspect, do not fall for all the marketing crap about pilot shortages (last time was in 1940) or guaranteed jobs, they don't exist, you must minimize your risks.

As you are still young and enjoying your job I should stick to it and get at least 3 years nitty-gritty experience under your belt at the same time saving some money for the future. In the meantime why not start on your PPL at weekends, having got a Class 1 medical to start with, this is a no risk option.
You can then proceed at your own pace, be this distance learning or taking 6 months off for ground school (what I did 20 years ago) then on to the flying.

Other than the fact you are interested in the MSc I can't see any useful gains from it, you already have a degree in a vocation of high demand. I always advise people having a back-up career prior to getting their heads in the clouds. You shall not be getting "several confirmed job offers" going down the pilot route.

You must do what is right for YOU, for your circumstances (time, money, ability) everbody's situation is different so you can only get an overview from this or similar forums.

Please PM me if required.

[minimad]

Future captain, well done on the ambitious name, nothing wrong with that! I'm the same age as you and ive nearly finished my ppl. I'd say start you ppl and get amongst it. You'll be hooked in no time! even though I'm always skint I love my weekend hobby and don't regret it one bit ;-)

[future captain]

Hi minimad,

Sounds like you look forward to your weekends! Am guessing you will be going along the modular route as and when finances are available? Or leave it as a hobby at the PPL...

I'd say start you ppl and get amongst it

Here I think you raise a valid point. May start looking into some places, I have a decent wage retention (could be better though ) at the moment since I live at home.

Thanks for the input. Good luck on completing that PPL!

[Final]

In IT you can work as freelancer doing contract work. You earn more money when working and taking longer off between contracts for flight courses or tours around the world. When young this is a especially nice lifestyle. And also adaquate for someone wanting to be a pilot. May be you can also contract internationaly.

[minimad]

Future captain,

Ive chosen the modular route so it will definately be when the moneys in my pocket!
It's good when you ask your mates what theyve done at weekends and all they come up with is xbox. Nothing wrong with that but life is way too short ;-) go against the grain! good luck with whatever you decide to do!

Minimad

[future captain]

Thanks, Hopefully I won't be too far behind you. Time to put that dual screen at work to some use, start looking into my options more seriously, as you said life's too short to go with the flow