Originally Posted by Ottolillienthal

Like you, all types. Mostly very sharp folks. But sometimes in just discussing the industry and the profession, I get the weirdest comments from former interns. I just get the impression that their dues paying process was much shorter than those who were out there busting their humps. The FO's I fly with are all very-very sharp. Most have had significant time in the regionals and have great weather and instrument experience, and their procedures are very sound.

It's more of a subtle nuance that I notice that while an applicant thinks they are getting a leg up on the competition by getting an internship, they may be short changing their actual pilot education in terms of experience. With quick upgrade times it may be wiser for the company to focus on experience in the future. I am sure the internship program has its merits.