Bluelake,
I was responding to aloft when he said he wouldn't want to fly with someone on a 4 day trip, who didn't know about anything other than aviation.
As far as ATP screening its applicants, its a good idea. You get people who are serious about a career in aviation. Beleive me, I wish I had my degree. But as the saying goes, seniority is everything. I could be flying a regional in 2 years from now, then get my degree, and have seniority. Im 29, I dont have time, or the money, to go get a 4 year degree, then go to flight school. Hell, I wouldn't get a job flying for 5-6 years, and still be in debt for over $100,000.
My goal of earning my degree after I start working for a regional, is the only economical, and logical choice for a guy in my shoes. Every day I wish I had gone to college after high school. But at the same time I dont regret the path I took. I earn a very good living, and I am well respected in my field. I am willing to give it up to go after the dream, the same dream we all share.
I just dont think it is up to flight schools to decide who should be able to persue thier dreams, and who should just stay home. When the regional airlines start to require a degree, then I will have to re-think my plans.
Turk
----> Dont drink and fly <------