Before I start I'd like to say that I'm asking these questions due to this being an anonymous posting site, and in hopes that I can continue posting here without any negative judgements on myself.

With that said I'll tell my brief story and ask a few questions in hopes of USEFUL input and answers. I know what I did was wrong, I have paid for it and will continue to pay for it throughout my career.

At the age of 17 I was pulled over and charged with a DUI. After completing a diversion program the charges were dismissed and I was also able to save my drivers license with no suspension. Due to not starting flight training yet, not being convicted, and not having my drivers license suspended I have never reported this to the FAA, which I believe is the correct action after reading the FAR's repeatedly. Although I was never convicted, I know I will likely have to answer yes to being arrested in an interview and will have to tell my story.
I have only recieved one ticket since then (actually on the evening of my 21st birthday, and I wasnt drunk, oh the irony), which I have read is a good thing, but none would be better.

I am now 23 (6 years later), on the verge of becoming a CFI and I am looking for some input on some questions I have on fast-approaching regional interviews....

1.) Knowing that I'm at a disadvantage in the interview, is there anything at all that could level the playing field slightly?
2.) Is getting hired at a decent regional out of the question, or should I automatically shoot for the lesser quality of the bunch?
3.) Should I plan on being stuck at a regional for my career, or is a major a realistic goal?
4.) I am not sure on the language, but I know the Canadians have a problem with DUI's... the key word there is also convicted, if I remember correctly. Is this something I should look into and possibly obtain before sending out applications?
5.) I'm in the process of obtaining my own fingerprinted FBI check, if no mention of a DUI shows up but an arrest does, could/should I try and get away with leaving those three letters out in an interview?
6.) Although I'm pretty sure I'm right, did I do the right thing in not telling the FAA?

Any responses and additional information would be great. In hopes of not having this thread hijacked like a similar post I have read, lets try to keep this relating to getting a job, not about how people like myself should be tarred, feathered, and hung from a tree, please.

Thank you ahead of time, and I look forward to chatting with everyone here on APC!
(hows that for a first post!?ha...sorry that was really long)