A lot has changed since I went AD in 97, but a few things to think about before you join.

1. Why do you want to join? Just giving that "I want to serve my country" BS wont get you far. If you want to learn a trade that can be transfered into the civilian world, and get paid decent money to do it then I say go for it. Yes there are some fairly strict rules, but at the same time, its easier than any civilian job.

2. You need to be able to roll with the punches of life. You will get shit on for a while, but as you gain rank people will remember how you delt with getting shit on. If you handle it well you will get more respect than someone that complains th whole time. I also leard that life was MUCH easier as an E-2 and getting shit on than being an E-5 and getting shit on. An E-5 getting shit on means MANY extra hours of paperwork where an E-2 means mopping the shitter and taking out the trash.

3. You used to be able to apply for a early court date for a misdemenor charge. A friend of mine did it and the judge gave him a small fine suspended probation pending sucessful completion of bootcamp. At that point the case was closed. Talk to a recruiter and the prosecuter about doing it.

4. AD and the guard are in no way comparable. I would always reccomend doing your first enlistment AD to gain a skill and really learn your job. My AD time was the best years of my life and I wouldnt change a thing about it. I am in the guard now so I can get my 20 years and get my retirement.

If you have specific questions about AD army I cant help you, but I do know AD Marine Corps and I know a bit about the guard. I can try to answer any specific questions if you have them. Also before you talk to a recruiter PM me. I can add you into the system and have a recruiter contact you.