To agree with L337,
It is not the starting point that matters but the path that is taken thereafter. The training and self discipline (all right old fashioned idea) and willingness to learn that individuals have.
I have come across, taught and checked good pilots from all backgrounds. Ditto bad ones.
We all bring something to the party however we enter this profession, the role of the good Capt is to use the strengths of his crew. As to preferring a cadet, or ex GA, or ex military I hope I look at the individual and how to make his contribution as relevent as possible.
To be controversial what really worries me are airlines that only recruit pilots from 1 type of background.