Why Flight School Might Be the Perfect College Alternative for My 17-Year-Old

Hey there! If you're pondering the age-old question of college versus alternative paths, you're not alone. Let me share a personal story that might resonate with you. My son, just 17 years old, is gearing up to skip the traditional college route and head straight to flight school. And you know what? I couldn't be more thrilled about his decision.

A New Flight Plan

Exploring a Different Path

While my wife and I cherished our college experiences and the stability our degrees brought, we recognize that the soaring costs of higher education and the burden of student loans can make college a less appealing choice today.

Our son's ambition? To become an airline pilot. And guess what? That dream doesn't require a college degree. Instead, we're looking into a tailored plan for him: completing pilot training at a local flight school post high school.

Why I'm Rooting for Flight School

College Cost Conundrum

For many, the increasing tuition fees and uncertain job market have cast doubts on the value of a college education. A recent survey revealed that only a small percentage of Americans consider college worth the financial investment.

While my wife and I benefited from our degrees, we understand that college isn't a one-size-fits-all solution. We'd rather see our son receive targeted training that aligns with his career aspirations, without the unnecessary academic baggage.

Diverse Career Paths

Not everyone thrives in a conventional academic setting. Some individuals, like my son, are driven by hands-on experiences and specialized skills. The risk of accumulating student debt for a degree that might not be the right fit is a valid concern.

My son's passion lies in aviation, not classrooms. He's laser-focused on becoming a pilot and wants to dive straight into practical training. I believe in fostering his enthusiasm for what truly ignites his spirit.

Putting Our Child First

Personalized Learning

If our son envisioned a college-bound pilot path, we'd support that too. However, we believe a standalone flight school offers a more tailored approach for his needs. It allows him to save costs, train locally, and embark swiftly on his aviation journey.

Apart from financial considerations, the decision to fast-track his aviation career resonates with his passion. His dedication, responsibility, and aviation knowledge are paving the way for a future he's excited about.

So, as we gear up to witness our son spread his wings, we're confident that choosing flight school is the perfect takeoff for his aspirations. And who knows, maybe his unconventional path will inspire others to follow their dreams boldly, just like he is. Here's to embracing unique journeys and soaring to new heights!

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By: insider@insider.com (Ben Gran)
Title: Why Flight School Might Be the Perfect College Alternative for My 17-Year-Old
Sourced From: www.businessinsider.com/better-off-skipping-college-and-attending-flight-school-2025-6
Published Date: Sat, 28 Jun 2025 18:13:01 +0000