Sagey,
You've had some sound advice on this thread. Take it on board.
I was a 'mature' student, graduating aged almost 28. I fannied around for about 18 months with this dream of getting my flying career going. I temped, then did a few hours aloft starting my PPL then temped a bit more.
The weather was fowl, I was broke and I barely gained many hours (not even going solo) and then failed the final board for BA sponsorship. That was the final straw. I immediately went hunting for "proper jobs".
I found a good graduate job locally but before starting I popped over to Florida for 4 weeks. I completed my UK PPL, hour built and came home with 82 hours TT.
I started this "proper job" and now, almost 2 years later, I have completed all my ATPL exams (PPSC correspondence), have joined a flying group on a Tomahawk , so I can hour build as and when, am currently doing an IMC AND I have money saved in the bank. Will be doing my CPL/IR this summer.
The moral of the story is; Have a plan, a long term plan, get a real paying job and do everything one stage at a time whilst keeping your ear to the ground. Keep applying to sponsorships. Remember that a responsible job on a CV looks better than someone just pissing about. I think BA were unimpressed by how I had filled my time since graduation.
We're all desparate to jump in that jet RH seat but if you are methodical in your approach it will all turn out fine. You're a young lad you have plenty of time.
TTFN.......and good luck