I had all my apps out to the Majors and nobody called by my retirement date. I executed Plan B; went to the regionals and was hired by United about a year after completing regional IOE.
I can attest to Albie's advice.
I wasn't "too cool for school", kept an open mind, and I learned a HUGE amount at the regionals. I can say with certainty that my experience there gave me a big confidence boost when I got to training at United. I am quite sure I would not have succeeded at training at United without my regional experience--it was worth taking the bad pay temporarily to get a handle on the 121 thing.
Anyone with a good military resume shouldn't be afraid to get warmed up at the regionals. I am very grateful for my time there and am also able to appreciate my current gig in a way I never would have otherwise.
Good luck Gents!