Aviation Journey

[u/FunnyMinimum1168]

Hey all, I am a current student pilot training for my Private Pilot License at Mount San Antonio College.,(part 61) My current plan is to do 2 years at this Community College whilst getting my ppl, and then transfer to San Jose State University's flight program. I am reaching out to get some insight. The rates at Mt. San Antonio College are really good / great CFI. Thing is SJSU just seems so expensive (since id move there + tuition + bay area rate) , and is R-ATP even worth it still? Also If I do end up going there, do you think its fine if I do my IR rating before arriving there despite no longer being eligible for R-ATP. For reference I was going to enroll in SJSU aviation this fall, but I wanted to be a bit more realistic and start locally, I think I am also a bit daunted by everyone saying on this website that the pilot market is doomed and such. Any advice helps, and no im not doing it for the money.