Working at a regional airline is not paying dues, that's a bonified flying gig. Don't get to an interview and say you're going to use them as a stepping stone and blast off in 2 years (even if you may). Choose a company that is a good fit for you; a company that you would want to stay at for 5-10 years or more. There is a growing pool of regional "lifers" out there. A company that treats their pilots decent is worth competing for, in my opinion only.

I'm not that far ahead of you brother, but I could suggest one more thing...enjoy the ride, don't freak out about getting to the next step or you'll be living in a life of utter frustration. Not trying to be patronizing, just offering up some free advice. College is a hell of a time to pass by while you worry about flying a jet (beer, girls, beer). Again, good luck dude.