Mate, I'm 16(almost), in my 2nd to last year at High School and am currently taking one a month flying lessons to get to around 5 hours so far. I've wanted to be a pilot all my life and I am set firmly on that. However the first thing, before anything, is to get some extra curricular activities and stuff from places like school and things like that. No matter if you want to get into the big jets or the regional carriers, first thing to do is have something on your C.V. that will make you stand out. And don't get involved in aviation just to fly the 747, because you may find yourself disappointed. By all means, go for it, but have a backup plan in case. Also, coming from a better off background may help for a start, but you are going to have to want it more than anything else. Wish you well, and might see you on the flight deck one day!!Cheers,Joe Mathieson.P.S. 737's aren't small!!