Keep the hope alive. I just JS'd a flight where the FO was a new hire with 0 TPIC at a regional (straight civ aviation) that has no association whatsoever with DAL and he had zero internal recommendations. He attended several job fairs, had an incredible education, and was an absolutely stellar individual. I was humbled by his demeanor, background, and absolute competence. It certainly isn't the average path to employment, but the opportunity is there.