Back to the topic?
As I see it...
Degree vs No degree
Mega buck job vs the rest of us
integrated vs modular
Sponsored vs self sponsored.
None of that really matters, for each one of those variables there will be people who represent both sides (and who have a gained an fATPL and then a job). And for the most part, no matter which way you get the licence there will be ups and downs and lots of hard work.
Surely the point is that after trying for a sponsorship for 8 years, you could use your initiative and perhaps start to think and plan for self sponsoring.
Its just a matter of adapting to the circumstances with which you have been presented with, either take on the new challenge or give up?
Personally (and perhaps net very PC), if people give up, less competition for me at the job interview(s) next year!!
GQ