I currently work in hospitality, and have been considering a career with the railroad. I'm more interested in passenger service over freight. I've heard passenger rail is generally a better and more comfortable work environment than freight. Based on what I've read about the industry, Amtrak jobs are more scheduled than freight assignments. You basically know the time you start, and when you're going to be home. On freight it sounds like you take the train from point A to B for 12 hours, layover in a hotel, and wait for a call to take it back. Amtrak is difficult to get into though. I've heard of people applying and interviewing multiple times. What's the best way to make yourself stand out? I know there are some railroad "schools" out there. They are quite expensive, and you still have to complete the railroad's training program anyway.