Pants with a zipper in the back will help make things a little easier...
In all seriousness, do some research on pay and work rules. Mesa seems to think it's ok to pay "average block". Their computer program decides it takes 2 hours to go from DEN to PHX on average. You get paid for 2 hours regardless of if it takes 2 hours, or it takes 5 hours because of a groundstop, holding, etc.
Most other airlines pay "Block or better". You take 1:45 to make that same flight, you get paid for two hours. You take 4 hours to get there, you get paid 4 hours.
As for the other airlines, I think it's pretty much a draw. Sure a few are slightly better than the rest, but that's all reletive to what you're looking for. Some want a fast upgrade, some want better pay, some like a regional because of the base options. What works for you? Do your homework before you take a leap. First year pay sucks no matter where you are.