> they are essentially
> flesh-peddlers.

I (as a recruiter) would like to point out something that has been left OUT on this list of querries.
"recruiters" that take you, your info and "sells" it to a school YES I agree. but recruiters that you deal with throuout you stay as well as sign contracts with rather than the school you are (for the most part) in good hands. Some are still cheats yes so do your homework look into the company or better yet CALL THE PERSON DIRECTLY, a phone call to answer your questions does 2 things,
1 it verifies they are a real person
2 you can talk to others in the office there.
Not all recruiters are "flesh mongers" I dont get paid unless you work. The school pasys the company on the first of the month and you get paid on the 10th I dont get paid until AFTER you do.