Hello all, I am a current 121 regional FO and like everyone else I aspire to get hired on with the majors one day. I started this thread because I am looking for advice on what it takes to be competitive to get my foot in the door as I gain experience. I realize that the competition is stiff with thousands applicants with TPIC and even check airman experience who are not getting the call. I know I've got a ways to go but I'm looking to work hard now and set myself up for success later on down the road.

A little background on myself...

Married white guy in my upper 20s
BS Aviation Degree and an undergrad cert in Aviation Safety from Riddle
Approaching 3000TT and will most likely upgrade by the end of the year with somewhere around 3300TT

I have looked into getting a masters degree to be more competitive but it would take 3 years to complete. My main priority is balancing work and family life. I have the seniority to upgrade at my regional but not the time, so flying is a priority. Also my wife is active duty Air Force and in a very stringent two year training program, the details of which cannot be discussed here unfortunately. I am a commuter, which takes time away from home, but when I am home my priority is helping out around the house to make her life easier. Things at home will smooth out when she becomes operational.

I would get a masters degree if it made me more competitive, but honestly I'd rather pursue vocational studies such as sports nutrition and becoming a personal trainer. Would one be better than the other?

Any advice on the matter is greatly appreciated!