If XJT is gone (which I doubt), there will be plenty of comparable regionals to look at when you get out.
Internships are great.
Follow the advice on the board. Locate a local FAA Aviation Medical Examiner (
http://www.faa.gov/pilots/amelocator/) and get a 1st class medical. This is the class of medical needed to get hired by the airlines. Might as well know now that you are physically fit to fly before you invest money in the career.
Also, go up for a discovery flight at a local airport. See if you actually like flying smaller general aviation airplanes. Usually you can do this through
www.beapilot.com for about $50.
Last piece of advice I can say is to keep your mind open about different aviation jobs. Growing up I've always wanted to become an airline pilot because of the prestige and glamour that WAS associated with the job. As many will tell you, this is not the case anymore. When I got to college I was exposed to other facets of aviation such as corporate aviation. That is what I am setting my sights on now.
It's good that you have some goals now. You remind me of myself in high school. Many people envy us for knowing what we've wanted to do our whole lives.
Most important thing for you to do now is study hard! Get good grades so you can choose from a variety of colleges. Try to have fun too!
