Ithought I could put my 2 cents in this topic because I started in this hobby only a year ago. I am a college student who is required to do internships. Last year I got a great one about 8 hours from home. I was in PA. I had always been interested in planes and rc. I had gas trucks and other rc things. So when I went out to PA, I didn't know anyone or have anything to do after work. I decided one day after moving there to go check out a local club I had seen out there. It was max 15 mins from my apt. I went and stood int the background and watched a few guys fly. Then they came up to me and introduced themselves. Very nice guys. I explained my situation and they said that Tues and Thurs were training days. I could come out and fly with an instructor on a buddy box with a club trainer for free. Can't beat that so I said I would come out. I did and the instructor was very nice and he took off and had it going around and asked if I was ready. I took the plane, practically shaking nervous, and had in flying in circles in a few circles. I was hooked. They let me fly that plane a few times to get better for the price of fuel! again hard to beat that deal. Then I got my own plane, they help me set it up, maiden it and fly it. I soloed with that club and haven't looked back. I like clubs, however, the cost of the club often comes with an AMA membership, as most clubs require it. Clubs definately have their benefit if you find the right club. I had also visited another club in the same area that was maybe another 3 mins drive. While there I was basically ignored and the members didn't seem to want new members. I have seen both but in my experience most are good, and having the benefit of assistance, some really great people that are in this hobby,and a place to fly is definately worth the price. Maybe this will change as I grow in this hobby but I like watching other people fly as well as flying.

Thanks to any instructor out there. You guys save more time, money, and frustration than you can imagine.

What a hobby!
This club helped me get into this hobby when they knew there was nothing in it for them.