Just got off First yr pay recently myself. Its tough but doable! Save SAve SAVe SAVE! Save as much as possible from now till the day you get the job and then some. Spouse working helps for sure but cutting as many bills as possible is easier than you think. For instance we cut cable out and stream tv for $50 less a month. Managed to get out of First year without any credit card debt while paying for a 300/mth for a crash pad. This was all done on 80k less a year than I made at previous job.
Some fleets offer the opportunity to make a little more money with the international flying as well, so that helps.
Others are more knowledgeable as far as "extra outside flying" but I believe the contract allows it as long as it doesnt effect your rest, or duty days...