Zimbu - you missed my point, which is a little disappointing considering that you have a degree I presume.
I would agree it is rare for people without degrees to get sponsored, but it is also rare for the airlines to take on people of age 21/22 who have not worked in industry yet. Education is one thing, but the airlines will want some evidence you have the ability to get up in the morning and go to work if you follow.
The rest of your post Zimbu was very good and I agree wholeheartedly.