Join a Guard unit while in college, and become a crew chief, loadmaster, F/E, boom operator, etc. Any job that gets you around, and known to the pilots in that unit. Continue to fly during your off hours (some bases have flying clubs where you could even CFI). Once you graduate, apply for a pilot position in that unit. The guys you've been working with, and for, are the ones that make the selections. If selected, be a full time "guardie" until you amass enough hrs to apply to the majors. Better pay and much more interesting flying in the guard that for the regionals.

Besides, I think the Guard helps with tuition while going to school.

Just a thought. Good luck with your decision, whatever that may be.