Have you checked the loads for the flights you want to take? And have you ridden on a buddy pass before? Just remember, you go to the bottom of the list of stand-bys and non-revs, irregardless of seniority (unless the employee is travelling with you). Buddy passes are a nice perk when you can use them, but I have heard my share of horror stories of people being stuck for days trying to get on a flight.
Good luck!