How to explain a 1-year university gap in airline cadet interviews?
Hey everyone,
Preparing for a cadet interview and need some objective advice on a CV detail.
In my cover letter, I wrote that I went into civil engineering to build a strong scientific background, get a solid backup plan, and prepare for flight school. However, if recruiters do the math, they’ll see it took me 6 years instead of 5 to get my Master’s degree.
What I left out is that right after high school, I actually did a year in premed/medical school. Honestly, it just wasn't a good fit for me, I barely put in any effort, and I didn't pass. The next year, I switched to engineering because I preferred math, physics, and problem-solving, which felt way more relevant for a future pilot. After that pivot, my track record is very strong, i joined a very good flying school, did an atpl integrated and had very good results.
I know we shouldn't be ashamed of our paths, but I really don’t want my background to look too zigzaggy or incoherent to the psychologist and pilot recruiters.
My questions:
- Should I proactively mention this premed year during my initial 5 minute personal introduction to show transparency?
- Or should I wait for them to spot the math gap and ask me directly?
- How do airline recruiters view a messed-up year at the very beginning of college if the rest of the profile is solid?
Please be totally honest and objective. Thanks!