Seneca
Moderators: lilfssister, North Shore, sky's the limit, sepia, Sulako, Right Seat Captain
Re: Seneca
When I went through Seneca it was still a 3 year program. There were a number of students in their mid to late 20s.
While overall I was really happy with the program, I thought 3 years was a pretty long time. It could be a great idea to enroll in the program now, or it may make more sense to go to a different college program such as Confederation or Sault College which are shorter, or to do the training on your own through a local flight school. Many guys on this board will argue that it's better to finish your training as quick as possible and get out into the industry quicker.
A couple things you need to ask yourself:
What's your money situation like?
The Seneca Program is subsidized, but over the 4 years, it's still going to cost you the same as what you'd pay to get your licences through an FTU. One the one hand it might make sense to go through the program so you're eligible for student loans and you don't have to pay the training costs all in one shot, but on the other, getting the ratings quicker means you can be out working quicker and even though the pay for the first couple of years will suck, you're still getting paid and can try paying off the debt.
Do you have a Degree Already?
One of the benefits of the Seneca program is the fact that they offer a degree. This topic has been debated ad nauseam on this board. It won't get you a job right away, but having a degree has other benefits. However, if you already have a degree, I would argue that it's not worth the extra time going through the Seneca program for another degree.
Are you willing to move?
If you're not attached to Toronto (you're lucky! - leaving was the best thing I ever did
) then maybe consider Confederation or Sault College for a subsidized program as they are cheaper and quicker but still offer top notch flight training. Confederation offers a float rating instead of the Multi. Or depending on your past experience level, a non-subsidized college program in another part of the country may be a good idea as well.
If you are attached to Toronto it might not hurt to look into the local flight schools and compare the pros and cons of doing your training through them vs. Seneca (costs, location, equipment, time commitment, ability to work on the side etc.)
How academically inclined are you?
While the program has changed with the implementation of the degree and there is no longer a 'cut' from first year to second year, it is still academically challenging. I have heard rumours that they are slightly more accomodating to students with the new program, but the fact is, you're going to have to work pretty hard for those for years. Some of the courses will be far more technical than are probably necessary and at times it will seem like you're doing extra work for not much of a reason.
For the most part, I found that the courses were interesting and challenging, but there were definitely a few of them where I felt "ok, I'm never going to use this. My time would be much better spent finishing earlier and looking for a job"
4 years is a long time to do your flight training. Even though starting your first flying gig when you're 29 is not over the hill, you have to keep in mind that you're not going to be making great cash for the first few years. Plus, who knows how the industry will be in 4 years. For that matter, who knows how the industry will be in 6 months!
It's tough to say, and even though I enjoyed Seneca's program, I'd be inclined to suggest that you get your licences quicker either privately or through Confed and get out flying as quick as possible. But going to Seneca is not a bad choice either depending on your situation.
If you have any more questions don't hesitate to ask.
Cheers,
James Ball
Author of "So, You Want to be a Pilot, Eh?"
While overall I was really happy with the program, I thought 3 years was a pretty long time. It could be a great idea to enroll in the program now, or it may make more sense to go to a different college program such as Confederation or Sault College which are shorter, or to do the training on your own through a local flight school. Many guys on this board will argue that it's better to finish your training as quick as possible and get out into the industry quicker.
A couple things you need to ask yourself:
What's your money situation like?
The Seneca Program is subsidized, but over the 4 years, it's still going to cost you the same as what you'd pay to get your licences through an FTU. One the one hand it might make sense to go through the program so you're eligible for student loans and you don't have to pay the training costs all in one shot, but on the other, getting the ratings quicker means you can be out working quicker and even though the pay for the first couple of years will suck, you're still getting paid and can try paying off the debt.
Do you have a Degree Already?
One of the benefits of the Seneca program is the fact that they offer a degree. This topic has been debated ad nauseam on this board. It won't get you a job right away, but having a degree has other benefits. However, if you already have a degree, I would argue that it's not worth the extra time going through the Seneca program for another degree.
Are you willing to move?
If you're not attached to Toronto (you're lucky! - leaving was the best thing I ever did
) then maybe consider Confederation or Sault College for a subsidized program as they are cheaper and quicker but still offer top notch flight training. Confederation offers a float rating instead of the Multi. Or depending on your past experience level, a non-subsidized college program in another part of the country may be a good idea as well. If you are attached to Toronto it might not hurt to look into the local flight schools and compare the pros and cons of doing your training through them vs. Seneca (costs, location, equipment, time commitment, ability to work on the side etc.)
How academically inclined are you?
While the program has changed with the implementation of the degree and there is no longer a 'cut' from first year to second year, it is still academically challenging. I have heard rumours that they are slightly more accomodating to students with the new program, but the fact is, you're going to have to work pretty hard for those for years. Some of the courses will be far more technical than are probably necessary and at times it will seem like you're doing extra work for not much of a reason.
For the most part, I found that the courses were interesting and challenging, but there were definitely a few of them where I felt "ok, I'm never going to use this. My time would be much better spent finishing earlier and looking for a job"
4 years is a long time to do your flight training. Even though starting your first flying gig when you're 29 is not over the hill, you have to keep in mind that you're not going to be making great cash for the first few years. Plus, who knows how the industry will be in 4 years. For that matter, who knows how the industry will be in 6 months!
It's tough to say, and even though I enjoyed Seneca's program, I'd be inclined to suggest that you get your licences quicker either privately or through Confed and get out flying as quick as possible. But going to Seneca is not a bad choice either depending on your situation.
If you have any more questions don't hesitate to ask.
Cheers,
James Ball
Author of "So, You Want to be a Pilot, Eh?"
Re: Seneca
There are people in 1st year in their early 30s and late 20s. Some of them even have families.
Others are around 24-25 and already have degrees from other universities...but then again these people have no problem with money and are also smart.
Others are around 24-25 and already have degrees from other universities...but then again these people have no problem with money and are also smart.
Re: Seneca
Another thing to think about is patience. Things will get slow. Also, you will have to deal with the occasional people in your classes that still "have some growing to do." I guess that would go for all post-secondary institutions though, but definitely something to keep in mind!
Re: Seneca
nope.. but i might be wrong, it all depends on your situation.
Re: Seneca
Hey
I am currently a student at Seneca College. I am in my early 30's and I can say there are pros and cons about coming to this program. Of which i can highlight in a pm if you want.
Overall the program is what you make of it. If you are dedicated and self disciplined you can extract a large amount of knowledge from the senior staff and develop a good fundamental skill to build on.
The market for pilots is really hot at the moment so committing 4 years will be a tough pill to swallow.
Feel free to ask me any questions via pm you might have.
Cheers.
I am currently a student at Seneca College. I am in my early 30's and I can say there are pros and cons about coming to this program. Of which i can highlight in a pm if you want.
Overall the program is what you make of it. If you are dedicated and self disciplined you can extract a large amount of knowledge from the senior staff and develop a good fundamental skill to build on.
The market for pilots is really hot at the moment so committing 4 years will be a tough pill to swallow.
Feel free to ask me any questions via pm you might have.
Cheers.
x15
Skin, Tin, Ticket...In that order.
Skin, Tin, Ticket...In that order.
