Becoming a commercial pilot

[Chrispee]

Hi Everybody,

I've finally made the decision to take the plunge and become a commercial pilot. I need some advice on schools though!

Here's a little background on me first though:
27 years old
Management in the administration of a private school
2-year college diploma in Business Administration

I've been accepted into the BCIT commercial pilot program, but I'm wondering if it would be better to do the trainig at a FBO. Any advice would be helpful! Here's a link to the BCIT program details:

http://www.bcit.ca/study/programs/1055dipts

[viper548]

There are probably some better deals out there, but this seems like it's a good deal.

[willythepilot]

If I remember correctly, while excellent aviation-wise, that program rewards you a diploma, not a four-year degree. Something to think about since most major airlines prefer these degrees.

[Chrispee]

[ QUOTE ]
If I remember correctly, while excellent aviation-wise, that program rewards you a diploma, not a four-year degree. Something to think about since most major airlines prefer these degrees.

[/ QUOTE ]

well, the general consensus that i got from spying in on these forums is that a non-aviation degree is better?
i have two years left to get my business administration degree, so i figured i'd do it by correspondence while i fly afterwards... do you think that's possible if i can land a gig as a cfi after the flight training?

[willythepilot]

I agree, a non-aviation degree is probably better, but I was just pointing out that the BCIT program gives you a diploma, not a degree. That's what kept me from applying to the program. But if you already have some type of degree, I think it would be an excellent experience.

[willythepilot]

Oops.

Yes, I do believe it's very possible.

[Callous]

Is is possible to look into something like the University of Phoenix Online. That would allow you to do your coursework all via the internet.

I was enrolled for 1 credit in their MBA program, and had to drop because it was too much with working full-time and family.

I was impressed with the diversity of students in my course. One individual was running for a technology position in his government in Africa (forgot the country), and I always looked forward to reading his contributions to see how he percieved different technology issues. (It was an MBA w/ Technology focus)

If you do decide to look into this, just be aware that the course is intensive. I was reading 250-350 pages per week, with a mandatory contribution 5 of every 7 days. So, if you are working at a regional on a 4 day trip you will still have to find an internet connection and submit a posting to your group, in addition to doing your reading/research, even at the end of your 14 hour day.

Alot of work, but it is possible. Especially if you are single and have alot of drive.