Well said Tom. Although I don't know what I'm talking about either, a well known airline was recentley quoted as saying that "there is no shortage of pilots, just a shortage of the right kind of pilots". Says it all really.
Doing a fATP - ground exams, flying, IR practical tests etc seems daugnting and a real acheavment, but when applying for that job - who are you talking to? Think about it. Also when you get that job that is when your learning will START.
I could write loads, but but won't bore you. Just step back, put yourself in there shoes and look at the whole picture.