I am a 21 year old about to be medically discharged from my country’s armed forces for injuries sustained in combat. I was a helicopter mechanic, and crew chief during my service. I am fascinated with aircraft, and after working at a machine shop on the civilian side, realized I wanted to pursue Aerospace Engineering. I have a few questions for those of you who have experience in this field or fields that may relate.

What is the smartest way to get this degree? I can do it for free but the question is do I go full time? Part time? Co-Op? I have the option to get an associates in aircraft maintenance technology as well as my A&P license before even going to school aerospace engineering. What is your opinion on the field? Is it a waste of time? Did any of you work in it? What took you by surprise? Did any of you working in the field find yourself satisfied with the work you were doing?