pilotconnor4396
New Member
Currently a high school senior with hopes of being a U.S. Navy Strike Fighter pilot. I have a Private and I hope to get my Instrument in my time off from college. Biggest goal is getting a commission and getting selected for tailhook. The airlines could be a potential post military career, but I have never felt thast where I really want to be. I know that a PPL doesn't help too much with the application to OCS, but it does help skills wise during flight training. Biggest debate between schools pertains to a balance of school and having a good time being young. My college options are:
1. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University - Prescott, AZ
Major: Aeronautical Science
Thoughts: Great school but very costly. I have heard that a degree in Aeronautical Science is hard to work with in the event that I go to the airlines but lose my job or can't fly because of a medical problem. Also, I feel that getting a commercial and multi-engine will be a waste of money if I get selected for a Naval Aviator spot. Also the school has a poor social climate and there really isn't much to do. ERAU does have small class sizes which help with academics though.
2. Cal Poly San Luis Obispo
Major: City Planning (probably will switch if able)
Thoughts: Great school that doesn't cost as much as ERAU. Solid academic background but larger class sizes and a quarter system mean I can not slack off or I will fall behind. Also near a small, regional airport where I could get my flight hours up and get my Instrument. Close to home with a lot to do outside of school with plenty of clubs to demonstrate leadership, etc.
*Denied from 5 U.C. schools so that limited myself to OCS as opposed to NROTC at two UC schools.
Really just want to hear your thoughts on my situation and any pointers to make myself more competitive. I think it hinges mostly on GPA, Aviation test scores, and LORs (?). I would like to get myself on the right track from the beginning of my four-year college experience. Thanks!
1. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University - Prescott, AZ
Major: Aeronautical Science
Thoughts: Great school but very costly. I have heard that a degree in Aeronautical Science is hard to work with in the event that I go to the airlines but lose my job or can't fly because of a medical problem. Also, I feel that getting a commercial and multi-engine will be a waste of money if I get selected for a Naval Aviator spot. Also the school has a poor social climate and there really isn't much to do. ERAU does have small class sizes which help with academics though.
2. Cal Poly San Luis Obispo
Major: City Planning (probably will switch if able)
Thoughts: Great school that doesn't cost as much as ERAU. Solid academic background but larger class sizes and a quarter system mean I can not slack off or I will fall behind. Also near a small, regional airport where I could get my flight hours up and get my Instrument. Close to home with a lot to do outside of school with plenty of clubs to demonstrate leadership, etc.
*Denied from 5 U.C. schools so that limited myself to OCS as opposed to NROTC at two UC schools.
Really just want to hear your thoughts on my situation and any pointers to make myself more competitive. I think it hinges mostly on GPA, Aviation test scores, and LORs (?). I would like to get myself on the right track from the beginning of my four-year college experience. Thanks!