I dont think that you would be able to beat the good old 182 (whether it be 182 or 182R). I think that you should be looking for a school that you will be able to do your flying in the 182. I would rather the 182 over the 172 ... the reasons are endless ...
I personally think that it is one of the better aircraft to get experience on and, if you are lucky enough to get a chance of a job, there is a good chance of it being on a 182 or 206 .... both fairly similar
just my thoughts ....