[QUOTE=southbay;54822]I might work on a different kind of ship but what do you mean? I just want to do what I want to do instead of chasing paper[/QUOTE]
Being a captain is all about chasing paper.
My advice is get the full academy degree and graduate with a 3rd mate unlimited license. You will need this to work in shipping, especially in the future. Also the fastest way to a master’s ticket. You can work your way up as far as you like. When you are off-watch, take an interest in other areas and learn as much as possible, this knowledge will come in handy if being a captain doesn’t live up to your expectations.