My first post on APC, but I'll speak to what I know. Please read this as an option as to what is possible.
I enlisted AD Air Force with a PPL with the plan to learn an aviation trade, use TA money for school and complete my ratings within the first two years. I hoped to have all of my instructor ratings and at least an associates at the two-year point, then transfer to a reserve/guard unit for 4 years while I worked as a CFI...then use my MGIB. It's a great plan, but not what I did.
They made me a crew chief on fighters which did several things. I was able to get my A&P, two-years of school knocked out, and I did complete my ratings through CFI...but this took nearly 4 years. How things changed? What I saw on a daily basis were young, groups of best friends, stepping to and dashing off in some of the cooling things I'd ever seen. This was now what I wanted to do, and I figured I could always fly a big airplane...you only get this chance once. After separation, I enrolled in a 2 year ROTC program, worked on the side as an A&P and CFI, and completed my degree and commission.
My career was average. I retire this year with a pension, medical for life, 2K PIC in fighters, instructor time, evaluator time and a lot of experience in project and program management. Best of all, I've made many great friends, and I have memories that will last a lifetime. Now who knows? Why do I say all of this...
Worst case depending on your perspective. Schooling you are required to complete equals college credit. TA pays for 75% of tuition while you are in. They feed you, house you and pay you (to do your civilian flying) and this is before touch your $50K+ GI Bill money...and the cost of all of this is to do good important things with good people
Don't be intimidated by the service commitments. It's basically a job you can't leave, but its a great job...and surprisingly good money.
My advice...pic a unit who flies something you want to fly. Continue your aviation pursuits, even if just for leisure. Get good grades, stay out of trouble, work hard at work and be someone other people like to be around. If you do this, they will sponsor you through your UPT endeavors and you will end up a squadron pilot. Like most things govt. once your in, you'll have many options.
Hope this helps...