Becoming an ATCA is a sure fire way to get some experience in the ATC field but don't think that it will be a "back door" as it won't! There's ATCAs out there who have applied more than once and have still failed to get in.
If you've only applied the once, you still have another 2 attempts as long as you're not approaching 30.
Get applying! I just started on 202 and from the talks we've had this week, although it will be hard work, this career looks like an absolute corker!!!
Oh, and GOOD LUCK!!
