Ok my contribution to this thread.
I'm graduated in 2005. Got a job and have now +2000 hours on bizz jet. Am i happy? No, perspective in the company is nihil. I'm feeling the drive to make progress in my career, keen on learning things in aviation. Im studying in my free time, because i want to improve myself as a pilot. Although, the reality is against it. Wrong age, not the correct typerating etc. Even prepared to fund new rating. Im looking now for 2 years for a new outfit. Without 1 single interview. Yes, yes, now you hear the story of a pilot with some hours and a job. I decided that at the end of the year, if there is no improvement, ill throw the towel. Replacement? No problem,at the ops, there enough guys to pick my job.
It is not on giving up the hope. It is about reality.