I have also recently finished at a well know FTO. In the knowledge of what things were going to be like once I had finished and also not wanting to follow the crowds to Ryanair/Brookfield I applied at a few airlines at my local airport for cabin crew.
I've thankfully landed a cabin crew position within an airline I respect and would ultimately like to to work for. I was honest on my application form and at interview that I would ultimately like to transfer to the flight deck and they seemed impressed.
I've worked extremely hard over the years, first of all saving for my course, then throughout my training and never expected to wander straight into shiny jet. I intend to carry on working hard first of all in the cabin and then ofcourse in the flight deck.
I think having done it this way, once I finally do make it to the flight deck it will be ultimately feel that much more satisfying!