I'd get my PPC, beyond that, depends. If you have the money and time, yes. It's very possible to build some time get a regional job then go to UPT. If you can get to a major before UPT...you'd be King Kong, but that's rare. If you don't have the money, I'd just knock out the PPC and concentrate on getting hired by a Gaurd unit.

Being willing to move to another state is a huge advantage. There are units in less desirable areas of the Country that are much much easier to get hired in. Also, if you don't care what you fly...this helps big time too. If you really want fighters, you'll definitely increase your odds by gunning for every unit that's hiring. Once hired, it is possible to change units.