One thing to consider is that MQ isn’t taking people off the street right now, cadets, DEC’s, and RTP’s are what the classes are comprised of. I would apply to both and take the interviews that are offered. Envoy will try to sell you a five year flow, and that only exists for a very few people hired in 2016 and even that is a theory. Both have their pros and cons. Envoy has bases that aren’t terrible to commute to. Republic has bases that are in our stations and are more difficult. Envoy has a fast upgrade, but a lot of Republic guys get hired at Southwest. Envoy can make you lazy in that you might adopt the “screw it I will just flow” mentality and not spend time updating your logbooks and put out applications. Republic will cause you to keep on top of those things.
All said and done, Envoy was my number one choice and I am glad that I came here. Most crews are great to fly with (bad eggs in every basket), the planes are taken care of (MEL/CDL’s happen everywhere), and the checks show up on time. If you live in base then our reserve system is tolerable, if you commute then prepare to want to burn the world down. Republic doesn’t have airport standby or junior manning and we do.
Good luck with your decision.