I have arrived.
So I've been traveling with United and other Star Alliance flights since my last year in college. I've used a Star Alliance airline for most of my trips since (three years). United and its partners are fairly cheap. Usually, they are the cheapest flight and because they have so many flights, usually have a flight that meets my traveling preferred schedule. I remember the days when I used to get a meal, snacks, pillow and blanket on my five hour flights. Nowadays, I have to pay for checking in bags, food and pretty much anything else. So I was ELATED when I discovered I'm now a Premier member. I get perks now! I can get upgraded. I can get discounts. Best of all, I get to check two bags in for FREE! wooooot! I have arrived!