Big mistake?

[a340x]

Hey there all...My first post here..
I am currently 19 and in my second year of College in an unrelated field. (in quebec)
I am also pursuing flying lessons at a local flying club, in the process of getting my commercial in a few months. Thinking about getting my instructor rating when i finish my commercial so i can log hours in the meantime i study.

I am in a dilemma and would like some advice please.
Should i pursue my studies for the next 3 years at university to get a bachelor's degree in business or should i go to the Ecole nationale Aerotechnique in Montreal to get an AME license? I regret that i didnt go there for the last 2 years and wasted my time at another college to get a diploma in commerce.

Do pilots who have an AME diploma make better decisions since they know the whole anatomy of the airplane? Are they better regarded by airlines?
Thanks

[E-Flyer]

You're far too early in your training to know if you will be flying for the airlines. You have many gaps to fill before you even get close to that !

Think of it this way, should an airline hire you because you have a degree or because you're a competent pilot with the right attitude?

I think you get my point; pursue what you're interested in and don't lock your self into the whole process of "should I get this so that I get hired by Air Canada" or something of the similar thought.


Good Luck

[Wacko]

You should get your AME. That way, when the industry hits another bottom, you'll be happily unemployed x2. Since Air Canada hires on a points scale, I would once again recommend getting an AME license. AC values a diploma much higher than any vocational training.

Good Luck!

[Stinky]

I've seen pilot/AME's that end up getting hired because they're an AME, but they're really hoping to fly. It gets your foot in the door but can backfire miserably.
I remember one guy I worked with was always stuck working on the planes while lesser experienced guys were getting hired to fly and did all the flying. The only flying he did was a little in the right seat when we had to get a broken plane somewhere. He ended up quitting. I've heard and seen other similar stories.

[jpar84]

Not too sure about the AME thing but definitely don't underestimate the value of a commerce degree. I did my bcomm in finance at Concordia before starting my flight training this summer, a Bcomm is a great asset to have if flying doesn't work out for you.

[herethere22]

I wouldn't bother getting an AME licence hoping the airlines think you're more qualified - they mostly care for pic time, total time, type time etc. Don't waste your time unless you have a true love for wrenching.

[E-Flyer]

hey mostly care for pic time, total time, type time etc.

exactly.