I understand that its frustrating to see people with better connections than others. Some guys get great breaks, but life is all about risk and our industry is no different. Are you willing to pay more tuition at Riddle, UND, Purdue or others for a chance at a great internship? I know quite a few friends who got to a major before they were 25. I also have friends who who went to aviation schools and are still flight instructing in their home towns. Its not better or worse than any other path, its just a different mix of risk and reward.

I respect guys who took the part 61 route at a local school. I think its great when guys at ATP get great results. Some folks choose the aviation university route. It may not be for you, and some of them might not be very humble, but by looking down on them aren't you just as bad as they are?