Hi guys,

Prospective Skywest FO here. I've been reading this forum and doing quite a bit of research on the airline and really like what I'm seeing. It definitely my number one choice. I'm sure that I'm getting a little ahead of myself not even having the job yet, but I'm seeking some input from you guys on which aircraft to take if offered the job when I finally interview.

I live near ORD, a CRJ-only base. All of my friends and family are here. However, I think I would really enjoy flying the Bro, and from what I'm reading it seems like there is higher potential for better pay/QOL taking the Bro. If assigned the Bro, considering what I've read about commuting, I think I would try to move to one of the bigger city bases, preferably LAX or SFO so I could live in base soon. But only if I could afford it.

My dilemma is, given the choice between aircraft, do I... a.) take the CRJ and stay in ORD where I know, but sit on reserve for ~2 years?...b.) take the Bro and commute to base from ORD?....or c.) move out to the west coast away from everything I know and where the cost of living is significant, but hold a line quickly and have more freedom over my schedule/get paid more?

I know this is a choice highly base on personal preference, but any input from you guys that have experience, especially people that are/have been in a similar situation, would be highly appreciated.

So questions for you guys:
-Is commuting even as terrible as its made to seem even if you are commuting to a line rather than reserve?
-Is is even possible to live in LAX/SFO somewhat comfortably on a first year F/O salary? (I have some savings, but not a huge amount)
-Is is looking like the reserve period out of ORD will hover around 2 years for the foreseeable future?
-Is Skywest hiring applicants who meet the reduced R-ATP minimums for approved collegiate institutions?

Any comments are appreciated!

Thanks guys, can't wait for the opportunity to get to work with some of you!