I was nearly furloughed late last summer. Had been thinking about looking for another job before, but that really kicked the search into over-drive. The only thing I could find with flexible enough hours was working on the ramp. I work a ton, but as a reserve FO I really don't have a choice - I don't know how I would make the bills work otherwise.

I'm still looking for something better, but as a word of advice - before you go looking for that sweet consulting job that every other guy is searching for, try something menial and easy first. The instant cash is a real help in the short-run, and even more useful is the practice gained from juggling an airline schedule with another employer's.