Originally Posted by thenewflesh
I was successful in doing this. Just call up the OPSC and tell them that you plan on flying more due to XXXXXX, and you'd like Elite status early (not that it would help you much as you can't get EUA'ed on int'l BF flights). The only bennies you get now are the mileage bonus, being able to board first, and (maybe) getting the bulkhead, at least on your TATL flight. Domestically, EUAs are possible, as my record indicates, but I tend to fly off-peak. But I suppose for the security/boarding privileges and the bonus, it'd be worth asking for.
I have gotten bulkhead on international travels without any status. I think the only benefit is the miles unless you are able to land an EUA. But, if you are like me, I get a lot of E135/45 so EUAs are not an issue. However, you can get preferred seating (meaning that you can sit closer to the front of the bus).