I have been in (active duty) for a year and a half. In that time I have doubled my rank, I live in Germany, and not to mention being in the army is the easiest job I have ever had. The hardest part of the day is getting up 5:30 morning. Its to easy...
as for you I would suggest thinking of every thing you want to know and make notes of it. Make a list of all your questions and go to a recruiter. I.M.O I would go active duty or nothing.