Everyone of us was a junior puke at the beginning of our career. I got bumped out of the jumpseat many times by more senior guys, but I never whined that my reason for travelling was any more important than his. We have a "prudent pilot" policy here at United; if you choose to live out of base, plan your two flights accordingly and call the crew desk if you don't get on the second flight. Don't whine like a little [jet engine] if you get bumped and want to abrogate seniority.