So I am starting a new phase in life and my travel habits; I am going to college in the UK for the next 3 years, and will probably not be returning back to live in the US for quite some time (if at all). I will fly between BHX/LHR to ORD at least 3x rt per yr, plus lots of continental European travel in between.

I'd like to know which will be most rewarding for me. I am starting with Aegean, I have 4,500 miles with them with the goal of 20,000 for the Star Alliance gold. BUT I would like to know it is booking reward tickets with other *A carriers. Post-university, my career choices will be travel heavy as well, and I would like to stick with 1 program and alliance.

Help is appreciated...

(1) LHR or BHX
(2)Y/Q/S
(3) 25-30k (estimated, as my travel patterns will drastically change this yr)
(4) none at the moment
(5) Redemption availability and rates, lounge access
(6) Trans-Atlantic, typically LHR-ORD, but I don't mind connecting on the continent.
(7) Lufthansa, but any non-US airline is preferred...
(8) Pleasure, traveling home from university. Typically economy only, unless a great deal is available.