I'm new so don't have any experience here to conclude from but.... My friend, hired in December on the 737 EWR switched to 756 EWR, is able to hold a line now . I'm not sure about DCA, but I'm wondering if because there is so much movement now that any conventional wisdom from the past is somewhat changed. These things though are definitely true.
1. Commute to reserve definitely is not fun.
2. Everyone has there own preferences.
I will be happy being the IRO, bring it on!