There are a lot of pressures in aviation. Some are pressures to do things that are unsafe or that you're not comfortable with. To resist those pressures, know the rules, seek people you can rely on for sound advice, listen to your instincts and say no when necessary.
Emily – Here are some thoughts for your consideration. Here in the United States, in order to fly for the major air carriers, the entry point requires 1,500 flight hours, in some instances less when trained by the military or special collegiate programs. At the 1,500 hour milestone, in the aspiring aviator’s career, he/she will have earned both Private and Commercial Pilot’s licenses, an Instrument Rating as well as Single and Multi-Engine Land signoffs. All of this, most commonly, in piston powered aircraft. The real challenge for the young aviator is to gain Turbine experience, most often in a turboprop such as the Beechcraft King Air. That will really set you apart from the competition. The best preparation one can get is to do a LOT of weather flying. These challenging flying hours yields one of the most important experiences in aviation – weather related decision making. And what is the definition of “experience”? It’s what you get just AFTER you needed it! Gaining this type of experience, before one starts to fly “The Big Iron” enables you to actually be the “Pilot In Command” as opposed to the “Pilot Along For The Ride”. Be the best! Aspire for Excellence! “Good” doesn’t cut it! Emily – Perhaps a few of these comments will be useful.