Actually I think you would be showing good headwork not to waste your life reading this entire thread. What a waste of time. This thread goes all over the place and much of what you read has no bearing on reality. Keep asking questions and eventually you'll find someone who isn't a smart ass. There seems to be a few of them around here.

I wouldn't apologize for asking legitimate questions. Stick up for yourself.

Your seniority date starts on the first day of class which also becomes known as your "hire date."