Aeolus2000BC, that sounds fantastic and I bet it is great poolside.
Personally, I did the NZ GA scene, I did the AirNZ Link thing and eventually got into Air New Zealand, probably much later than I could have had a Jet command overseas if I had have gone and done that.
My verdict, for me personally, I wouldn't change what I have done for the world. Yes, I could have done it quicker elsewhere, yes I could have earned more money and seen more exotic places etc, but I didn't. I stayed in NZ, which is what I wanted to do. I've had a fantastic time, met great people, enjoyed my lifestyle, get to see my extended family whenever I want and still have a close relationship with the friends I grew up with.
Certainly not trying to imply that the way I did things is the right way or the wrong way, but it has been the right way for me. I don't care about getting a quick command and lifestyle is more important to me than earning $144,000 at 26 years old. Someone will always do things quicker and someone will always earn more money.
Each to their own, enjoy the journey.