San Jose State Aviation or Mt. SAC Community College, Where should I start.
Hi everyone,
I’m from the Los Angeles area trying to figure out my next step after high school. My goal right now is to become an airline pilot, (or we will see lol).
Last year I took a discovery flight at Long Beach Airport and loved it, and ever since I know I can actually pursue flying as a career!
I got accepted into San Jose State’s Aviation program, and I’d probably do the Professional Flight track. From what I understand, you do your general education + aviation classes at SJSU, then schedule your flight training separately through Tradewinds Aviation at Reid-Hillview Airport. One thing that makes me hesitate is that it doesn’t seem as integrated as some other aviation colleges where the flying is built directly into the school itself.
Being honest, I don’t know if going straight there is the smartest move for me right now. I definitely need to improve my organization and study habits, and I know flight training + college at the same time could get overwhelming pretty fast. What would happen if halfway through I realize the airline route isn’t for me. And many more questions.
The other option I’m considering is staying local and going to Mt. SAC for 2 years, doing my gen ed + transfer classes there, while training at a Part 61 school at Long Beach Airport. That path honestly sounds less stressful to me. I feel like I’d have more time to mature, figure myself out a bit, and hopefully get my PPL during those two years. With the goal of transfering to SJSU aviation.
I’m also not really in a rush. I want to enjoy the process.
Just wanted to hear honest opinions please.
Note, I have my third class medical, and currently studying for the PPL written.
Thanks.