True enough. I think we are starting to see more and more "victims" less and less willing (as far as regionals are concerned).

I would certainly advise any new entrants to come into this career debt free and with low overhead. Live simply, save and invest early and often, and don't count your chickens before they hatch. That has really helped me through some set backs. Even if your dream carrier sticks around for 30 years, your medical may not.