Pondering my Future...
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The reason I know is because I came into some confusion regarding minimum age, but to clear it up I emailed them to ask, and the reply was 18-29. This was fairly recent aswell, so hopefully it still stands true 
Oh, and also this post on the CTC wings thread clarifies it http://www.pprune.org/forums/showpos...&postcount=954
Oh, and also this post on the CTC wings thread clarifies it http://www.pprune.org/forums/showpos...&postcount=954
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Ahh, cheers BF. Was unsure myself but thanks for clearing it up.
Ill definatly be applying straight after college if not before, as i know that it is a superb school.
However my second choice would be either Cabair, FTE or OAT, or any other really... Unsure personally! Its a bit like
Thanks ,
Chris.
Ill definatly be applying straight after college if not before, as i know that it is a superb school.
However my second choice would be either Cabair, FTE or OAT, or any other really... Unsure personally! Its a bit like
Thanks ,
Chris.
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Bumping, seeking more advice!
Guys, just thought I would re-appear in this thread I made 2 years ago, meaning I am 18! I was thinking, and I remember being sat 2 years ago thinking I wish time would go quicker. Looking back, its gone in seconds. I am just about to commence my final exams, for 2 of my 4 A-Levels. I already have 2 A's, in Maths and Geography and my final two are in Further Maths and Physics. I am hoping for an C in Physics, and an A in Further Maths. Anyway, enough about grades!
The situation at the moment is quite terrible for those commencing training. Its hit all the banks and the FTO's simply meaning you cant fund ab-initio training. I know this is simple but it puts any large FTO out of the window for me. Its a bad enough time to be training, and worse to be put in an unthinkable amount of debt.
Back in my younger days I had 3 plans,
Plan A- go to an FTO,
Plan B- go onto a cadetship and fund training with the money from that,
Plan C- university to study Maths...
Now, I am thinking plan B is the best option. You would get a degree in a Maritime subject, while earning money, and once the 3 year degree is over you get $40k starting wage as a third officer. I was thinking this could fund flying training sufficiently, within say a 5 year boundary. Say save 6k through university, then 10k throughout working per year. And then any financial help from my family. I think by the time I am 23-24 I could happily be in a financial situation to fund flight training...
To be honest guys, there is a huge brick wall in front of me, and the path around it is unfortunately 5 years in length.
Any ideas, thoughts and suggestions?
Thanks chaps!
Chris.
The situation at the moment is quite terrible for those commencing training. Its hit all the banks and the FTO's simply meaning you cant fund ab-initio training. I know this is simple but it puts any large FTO out of the window for me. Its a bad enough time to be training, and worse to be put in an unthinkable amount of debt.
Back in my younger days I had 3 plans,
Plan A- go to an FTO,
Plan B- go onto a cadetship and fund training with the money from that,
Plan C- university to study Maths...
Now, I am thinking plan B is the best option. You would get a degree in a Maritime subject, while earning money, and once the 3 year degree is over you get $40k starting wage as a third officer. I was thinking this could fund flying training sufficiently, within say a 5 year boundary. Say save 6k through university, then 10k throughout working per year. And then any financial help from my family. I think by the time I am 23-24 I could happily be in a financial situation to fund flight training...
To be honest guys, there is a huge brick wall in front of me, and the path around it is unfortunately 5 years in length.
Any ideas, thoughts and suggestions?
Thanks chaps!
Chris.
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Yes life has a habit of dropping reality into your lap. I think you have to decide what is right for you. If you are going to spend 5 years working, in order to save up the funding to assist with your flight training it may well be worth investigating those paths that would yield the best returns for that time investment. That isn't necessarily the job that offers the highest pay, since the input costs (or variables) associated with a particular line of work may not always give the best net yield. On top of that there needs to be consideration to the fact that 5 years (and it might be longer) is a fairly long time to be doing something that makes you miserable. To that end a balance may need to be struck between job satisfaction and potential yield.
Whilst working and saving towards your goal you can also apply for any opportunities that may arise in the meantime. Competition for those opportunities will be fierce, but as you have a fall back position, you would have little to lose.
Although you descibe the path around your particular obstacle as being "5 years in length." The truth is that is only a guess. The speed at which you travel varies over time and is also dependant on many variables.The dynamic is so complicated in reality that it needs a flexible and adaptable attitude. In reality it might be much shorter or much longer, and you should be prepared for either.
In summary, flexibility coupled with determination is key. You will also need a healthy measure of luck. Some of that luck you can probably manufacture for yourself using the first two ingredients.
Whilst working and saving towards your goal you can also apply for any opportunities that may arise in the meantime. Competition for those opportunities will be fierce, but as you have a fall back position, you would have little to lose.
Although you descibe the path around your particular obstacle as being "5 years in length." The truth is that is only a guess. The speed at which you travel varies over time and is also dependant on many variables.The dynamic is so complicated in reality that it needs a flexible and adaptable attitude. In reality it might be much shorter or much longer, and you should be prepared for either.
In summary, flexibility coupled with determination is key. You will also need a healthy measure of luck. Some of that luck you can probably manufacture for yourself using the first two ingredients.
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Plan C- university to study Maths...
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Thanks for the replies!
I do think its a pretty difficult decision to be in
Its hard choosing what to do, since it will influence the rest of your life.
Also, the job I would be going into would be the navigation of a cruise ship, travelling the world. To me this sounds awesome. Its all expenses paid as well. No debt. And a job guarantee at the end. Well, as long as you pass.
To me, a Maths degree would be good, I would enjoy it. I have enjoyed Maths at college and teachers have said how its disappointing to lose such an able mathematician by not going on further. The university would be Durham, which is pretty much the creme de la creme of Maths...
Also, cruising would be difficult with regard to opportunities arising since there is almost a 50:50 chance of being away at sea...
Obviously the figures I quoted are just total guesses, of course many things could change. In 5 years I could have a girlfriend and have kids, I mean the amount of variables is massive. 5 years is counting 3 years at uni, and 2 years working which is the minimum needed for the cruise company...
Its all a bit like head-banging a wall at the moment, if im honest...
I do think its a pretty difficult decision to be in
Its hard choosing what to do, since it will influence the rest of your life. Also, the job I would be going into would be the navigation of a cruise ship, travelling the world. To me this sounds awesome. Its all expenses paid as well. No debt. And a job guarantee at the end. Well, as long as you pass.
To me, a Maths degree would be good, I would enjoy it. I have enjoyed Maths at college and teachers have said how its disappointing to lose such an able mathematician by not going on further. The university would be Durham, which is pretty much the creme de la creme of Maths...
Also, cruising would be difficult with regard to opportunities arising since there is almost a 50:50 chance of being away at sea...
Obviously the figures I quoted are just total guesses, of course many things could change. In 5 years I could have a girlfriend and have kids, I mean the amount of variables is massive. 5 years is counting 3 years at uni, and 2 years working which is the minimum needed for the cruise company...
Its all a bit like head-banging a wall at the moment, if im honest...
Hi Chris,
I've always pondered a second career (originally a first choice) as crew on cruise liners. Don't suppose you could send me some web links for these cadetships your referring to? I've never been able to find much info about such a career so far!
Cheers,
Lewis
I've always pondered a second career (originally a first choice) as crew on cruise liners. Don't suppose you could send me some web links for these cadetships your referring to? I've never been able to find much info about such a career so far!
Cheers,
Lewis
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Glad to hear you are taking a considered approach to things.....In my humble, and perhaps somewhat uneducated opinion, I think the most important facet an airline pilot can possess is the life experience that can only be gained outside the classroom.
Relax, enjoy your life! you are only 18!!! Travel, see the World, go to Uni, know what it like to live off baked beans and pasta!
I may joke, but seriously, you have all the time in the World...keep your eye on the prize, but don't let it impeed any dreams you may have in the short-term....
just a thought.......
Relax, enjoy your life! you are only 18!!! Travel, see the World, go to Uni, know what it like to live off baked beans and pasta!
I may joke, but seriously, you have all the time in the World...keep your eye on the prize, but don't let it impeed any dreams you may have in the short-term....
just a thought.......
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Thanks for the replies once again!
Stuzzy, thanks for supporting my decisions. I really need some kind of backing since my parents are just taking a back seat, and letting me make my own decision which I believe to be a good position to be in.
Now, the choice stands between University to study maths or a cadet ship. Obviously either will be good, both giving a university experience. The maths degree would leave a huge debt, yet the cadet ship wouldnt. Cadet ship guarantees you a job, providing you pass. Cadet ship lets you travel the world. Cadet ship has a lot to do with becoming a pilot, such as the degree material being somewhat similar to that of the ATPL's such as mass and balance, meteorology, navigation etc.
Clicky Lew.
The only horrible thing about working at sea, is the fact your at sea for 3-4 months at a time...
Why oh why did the recession come now!
Stuzzy, thanks for supporting my decisions. I really need some kind of backing since my parents are just taking a back seat, and letting me make my own decision which I believe to be a good position to be in.
Now, the choice stands between University to study maths or a cadet ship. Obviously either will be good, both giving a university experience. The maths degree would leave a huge debt, yet the cadet ship wouldnt. Cadet ship guarantees you a job, providing you pass. Cadet ship lets you travel the world. Cadet ship has a lot to do with becoming a pilot, such as the degree material being somewhat similar to that of the ATPL's such as mass and balance, meteorology, navigation etc.
Clicky Lew.
The only horrible thing about working at sea, is the fact your at sea for 3-4 months at a time...
Why oh why did the recession come now!
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I think either route will stand you in good stead long term....From my own experience, I knew fine well at age 18 ( and this is by no means a reflection on you, everyone is different) I had neither the maturity nor financial security to contemplate starting Pilot training.
I decided to go to University, to study Economics. Not only did this give me a qualification to 'fall back' on, but it taught me the ability to work independently to deadlines....there isn't anyone cracking the whip at Uni, Its pretty much down to you. Most of all though, I had a great time!
I also managed to get a bit of free flying from the University Air Squadron....
After that I went traveling for the best part of 4 years, and carved out a back-up career, should I need to fall back on.
At the ripe old age of 28, I feel that now I have all the elements in place, personally speaking, to make the best of training.
Aptitudes aside, the main thing I have gleaned from the number of assessment days I have attended at various FTO's, is this: 'Could I sit next to this person, sealed in this aluminum tube, for the next 3 hours?"
I think the cadet programme sounds equally appealing, and a break from the 'norm' of University. I recon that would learn allot from this experience, and would be an excellent platform upon which to build. Not to mention an excellent thing to have on your cv! In these uncertain economic times, If you are considering self-financing your studies (as I am) you need to be certain you can maintain the loan repayments should you not find employment soon after graduating.
I hope I'm not coming across as some arrogant 'I've been there, I've done that, I know it all, I been traveling....man' type , but all I'm trying to impart to you is my feelings about the value of taking your time, making informed decisions, and most importantly, enjoying life!!!
All the best,
Stu
I decided to go to University, to study Economics. Not only did this give me a qualification to 'fall back' on, but it taught me the ability to work independently to deadlines....there isn't anyone cracking the whip at Uni, Its pretty much down to you. Most of all though, I had a great time!
I also managed to get a bit of free flying from the University Air Squadron....
After that I went traveling for the best part of 4 years, and carved out a back-up career, should I need to fall back on.
At the ripe old age of 28, I feel that now I have all the elements in place, personally speaking, to make the best of training.
Aptitudes aside, the main thing I have gleaned from the number of assessment days I have attended at various FTO's, is this: 'Could I sit next to this person, sealed in this aluminum tube, for the next 3 hours?"
I think the cadet programme sounds equally appealing, and a break from the 'norm' of University. I recon that would learn allot from this experience, and would be an excellent platform upon which to build. Not to mention an excellent thing to have on your cv! In these uncertain economic times, If you are considering self-financing your studies (as I am) you need to be certain you can maintain the loan repayments should you not find employment soon after graduating.
I hope I'm not coming across as some arrogant 'I've been there, I've done that, I know it all, I been traveling....man' type , but all I'm trying to impart to you is my feelings about the value of taking your time, making informed decisions, and most importantly, enjoying life!!!
All the best,
Stu
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Well, I do agree with you totally here. Its not really a choice for me to make since I cannot begin training now. I think one main factor which I cant comprehend now is time, Im thinking that if I dont go now, then too many factors will influence my life leading to a possibility of never reaching the final goal. Obviously this is quite "annoying" but patience is the key, I suppose.
As far as maturity goes, I do believe I am capable of training now, genuinely. Now, this is in the sense of personality, since there is many other factors such as life experience, so in a sense, am I mature enough? I just dont know...
I do know about the loan repayments, and how
large they are, and in reality I cannot begin to imagine having to repay it.
I got a letter today off Durham uni, asking what accommodation I want. I am going to try my best to defer this place until next year, so I start in 2010. This gives a year to get into a cruise company, which should be ample time. If I do get in, then I shall go for it, see how I find it and stick at it. If other opportunities arise, such as CTC beginning the HSBC loan then brill, Ill go for it, but otherwise Ill finish with the cruise company and work for them. Then time will bring in the cash, et voila.
Stuzzy, the one thing which rings loud in my mind is just what I could be doing at 28. I could be some maths dude, a officer on the deck of a ship, or a pilot. I know of a guy working for BA at 28, and I wouldnt want to be that age thinking "I wish I had done..."
A teacher said to me today, "Go for what your instinct wants, and if your instinct fails then at least you know that you did what YOU thought was right, and can take it from there..."
Thanks though
Its nice having someone in a similar position, just 10 years on!
As far as maturity goes, I do believe I am capable of training now, genuinely. Now, this is in the sense of personality, since there is many other factors such as life experience, so in a sense, am I mature enough? I just dont know...
I do know about the loan repayments, and how
large they are, and in reality I cannot begin to imagine having to repay it. I got a letter today off Durham uni, asking what accommodation I want. I am going to try my best to defer this place until next year, so I start in 2010. This gives a year to get into a cruise company, which should be ample time. If I do get in, then I shall go for it, see how I find it and stick at it. If other opportunities arise, such as CTC beginning the HSBC loan then brill, Ill go for it, but otherwise Ill finish with the cruise company and work for them. Then time will bring in the cash, et voila.
Stuzzy, the one thing which rings loud in my mind is just what I could be doing at 28. I could be some maths dude, a officer on the deck of a ship, or a pilot. I know of a guy working for BA at 28, and I wouldnt want to be that age thinking "I wish I had done..."
A teacher said to me today, "Go for what your instinct wants, and if your instinct fails then at least you know that you did what YOU thought was right, and can take it from there..."
Thanks though
Its nice having someone in a similar position, just 10 years on!
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...trust me, you might think 28 is forever-and-a-day-away, but my how time flys!!!!!
One minute you are 18, leaving school with the World at your feet, blink and suddenly you are 25, cough and there you are at 28, thinking, " man I'm nearly 30!!!"
Seriously though, best of luck to you. It sounds like you have your head screwed on and aren't jumping into anything rash.
As for me I'm off to Oxford in June...can't wait!
Happy Flying......
One minute you are 18, leaving school with the World at your feet, blink and suddenly you are 25, cough and there you are at 28, thinking, " man I'm nearly 30!!!"
Seriously though, best of luck to you. It sounds like you have your head screwed on and aren't jumping into anything rash.
As for me I'm off to Oxford in June...can't wait!
Happy Flying......
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Yeah, well 28 is far! Honest 
Just think when im 28, youll be 38! Hehe sorry I dont mean to make you feel old
Well best of luck in Oxford, I am sure youll have a ball of a time. I am NOT jealous in the slightest. June? Its June already!
I do agree about time though. One minute ago, I was sat looking through college books thinking "What the hell is this!" but now I am done with that, and will be coming out of college with some shiny A Levels! Well 2 years in a flash. I suppose I do believe you!
Youve earned what your getting into, now enjoy it! Just think 2 years and you could be making a 737 go zooom with a swift movement of your wrist...
Just think when im 28, youll be 38! Hehe sorry I dont mean to make you feel old Well best of luck in Oxford, I am sure youll have a ball of a time. I am NOT jealous in the slightest. June? Its June already!
I do agree about time though. One minute ago, I was sat looking through college books thinking "What the hell is this!" but now I am done with that, and will be coming out of college with some shiny A Levels! Well 2 years in a flash. I suppose I do believe you!
Youve earned what your getting into, now enjoy it! Just think 2 years and you could be making a 737 go zooom with a swift movement of your wrist...
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1mag1in3
When I was 18 I subscribed to this site, I had GCSE and A Levels and could not even begin to contemplate doing anything other than flying. I tried and failed several sponsorship assessments but couldn’t afford an air training school. I got a cr@$py retail job and did about 10 hours towards a PPL before ‘giving up’ in favour of the pub.
I languished in retail for 6 or 7 miserable years before working my t!ts off and managing to get a job I actually enjoy. I now consider myself in the extremely fortunate position where I have a job I really enjoy (most of the time) and that pays (reasonably) well. I live comfortably, enjoy my work and am now looking at flying again mainly for the pure enjoyment of it and then see where it leads.
You hit the nail on the head yourself when you said you cant predict your personal circumstances over the next 5 years, so you clearly are less blinkered than I was at 18!
From what you have said, you have a good set of qualifications so far and opportunities to do further education that will actually lead to a job rather than the sort of ‘nondescript’ degree I did.
In the current climate, getting yourself any sort of job is hard enough, never mind house/car/holidays/day to day living that goes with it.
I suppose what I’m saying is, don’t pressure yourself in to doing everything at once. You have options, and options = choice!
Apologies if I’m waffling . . . !
When I was 18 I subscribed to this site, I had GCSE and A Levels and could not even begin to contemplate doing anything other than flying. I tried and failed several sponsorship assessments but couldn’t afford an air training school. I got a cr@$py retail job and did about 10 hours towards a PPL before ‘giving up’ in favour of the pub.
I languished in retail for 6 or 7 miserable years before working my t!ts off and managing to get a job I actually enjoy. I now consider myself in the extremely fortunate position where I have a job I really enjoy (most of the time) and that pays (reasonably) well. I live comfortably, enjoy my work and am now looking at flying again mainly for the pure enjoyment of it and then see where it leads.
You hit the nail on the head yourself when you said you cant predict your personal circumstances over the next 5 years, so you clearly are less blinkered than I was at 18!
From what you have said, you have a good set of qualifications so far and opportunities to do further education that will actually lead to a job rather than the sort of ‘nondescript’ degree I did.
In the current climate, getting yourself any sort of job is hard enough, never mind house/car/holidays/day to day living that goes with it.
I suppose what I’m saying is, don’t pressure yourself in to doing everything at once. You have options, and options = choice!
Apologies if I’m waffling . . . !
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Have you thought about teaching Maths after your degree?
Sit your PGCE's, which, in certain circumstances can be accelerated to take 6 months....Plenty of government funding available, and a 5k 'golden hello'
It's a solid fall-back plan, with a guaranteed 20-25k salary attached to it.....
It is an industry that is in demand, and one you could return to quickly and easily (relatively) should you not gain immediate employment following finishing up at an FTO.
Sit your PGCE's, which, in certain circumstances can be accelerated to take 6 months....Plenty of government funding available, and a 5k 'golden hello'
It's a solid fall-back plan, with a guaranteed 20-25k salary attached to it.....
It is an industry that is in demand, and one you could return to quickly and easily (relatively) should you not gain immediate employment following finishing up at an FTO.
