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I have a rising junior son who has wanted to be a harbor pilot since 4th grade. His current "dream school" is Texas A&M, largely because of the climate. He preferred Maine Maritime until he realized how cold Maine gets in the winter. (this is a southern grits-eating, fishing and shrimping kind of boy). Are there any harbor pilots/marine engineers out there who can give me and his dad some guidance on whether there is a big difference between these schools and also, how much we should attempt to influence his decision. He is a bright young man, attending an academic magnet high school, getting mostly b's and a few c's - not very concerned about grades, but enjoying school and life a lot.

By Dadster on Wednesday, May 29, 2002 - 11:29 pm: Edit

I'm certainly no expert on maritime careers, but I'd suggest trying to choose a college that will provide not just career training in the field of interest, but other options as well. College can be a mind-expanding and interest-expanding experience, so help your son choose a school that will help him grow.

Have you looked at the University of New Orleans?

By California Mom (Calmom) on Sunday, June 02, 2002 - 02:14 am: Edit

Ohh, that brings back memories. Many years ago, when I was young and carefree and single, I went camping on the beach and met a young man whose job was to pilot a boat which dredged the area where the Columbia river flowed into the sea. He was a graduate of the California Maritime Academy in Vallejo, and very happy with his job and his seafaring education, having been born and raised in a landlocked state.

By dumbledore on Tuesday, June 04, 2002 - 10:13 pm: Edit

have you checked out the US Merchant Marine Academy on Long Island- free ride, Annapolis- free ride with commitment, US Coast Guard Academy. Otherwise, look for some east and west coast schools. Check with trade associations.
New Orleans U is the #1 school for naval architecture. Otherwise, gig'em in 2003!

By Sunny on Tuesday, June 04, 2002 - 11:22 pm: Edit

That sounds like such a highly specialized field I think the best thing to do is contact professionals already in the field and ask for their advice. I bet most laypersons don't even know what a harbor pilot is. Good luck.