This is a great post! The advice given here should see any new-guy well on his way. One small thing though: point number 5 is absolulute TRASH! Many pilots; myself included, can tell stories of the right place at the right time. Having personally sifted through 1000's of CV's, sat on the selection board, and interviewed pilots, my reccomendation would be: you don't win the lottery without buying a ticket!!! Even if you don't qualify; apply. You never know your luck.