[Tld]

Welcome to JC jester! While I am not as experienced or versed as many other pilots on here, I have to say that regardless of age, I think that your goals are worthwhile and attainable. I couldn't be happier that I decided to pursue flying, never is there a day I wish I hadn't. If it's your dream you have to go after it. Like some have said, there will be negatives and challenges, but that's the same in every career. Although I sometimes wish I had gotten my start earlier, because I was a little older and had a career separate from flying, I was able to afford to fly when I started. (when i started, not so much now..haha).

During my private pilot training I also started working weekends at the FBO where I was taking lessons. This drastically helped offset the cost of flying as well because I got an employee rental rate (might be something to look into as a way to cut costs). Working for the FBO also exposed me to many different types of pilots and gave me a glimpse into different career paths as well as offer me that 'real world' experience to which I believe you were referring. The greatest advice I can give is exactly the advice I received here on JC: Go for it! but be smart about it. And talk to people, meet as many other pilots as possible, you will learn so much from them. There are many paths to flying as a career, just have to find which training route and career will work best for you. Keep us posted on your progress and have fun!