Chris21
Have been advised the 3 currently in ground school were recruited less than 12 months ago.
It was explained to me by a recruitment team member that each applicant that is successful and goes onto the short list is scored (same or very similar to QF). If someone who was interviewed say 6 months ago scored higher than someone did 12 months ago they will go onto the short list above that person thus the reason why recently recruited people get a start date over others and vice versa. All comes down to your score and that dictates your position on the short list.
Eastern is not a bad company to work for generally, but you cant make a career out of being a dash 8 flight attendant, but than again there are not many options available these days anyway. Its a great starting point so dont write it off as an option, just be patient but continue to follow-up with KM. She came back from holidays yesterday so she may have some new info. Just send her an e-mail.