Original Message

I know a kid that got every rating on the day he was legal to get it. He's now a  airline Captain on a 737 at age 25. Another friend did 25 years of law enforcement (non flying). He retired, did some instruction on the side and is now flying for a regional based in Wisconsin at age 53. 

You can do it. The OP is correct. Go for the higher paid job, build a nest egg so you can live comfortably later. Things are going to get rough in the next few years. Prepare.