It still seems to be, at least from where I am scoping this out from is that paying your dues the old fashioned way produces better pilots, nine times out of ten. Not to knock any of the folks out at ERAU, but it's real world experience that seems to trump everything else. IMHO, the trick is to find the total package in that one individual who will sit in that right seat or left seat. The advent of these "zero to hero" programs come at a price, and we're just not talking about the mighty dollar either. Doesn't mean those folks who take that route are any less of pilots, but would you rather find this out in the air, or on the ground?
I for one, will do it the old fashioned way. Now, if I could just find the time to get the "do" done..
HerkFCC