What are the pros or cons of switching from National Guard to Active Duty and changing my MOS (from 11B to 56M or 68W)?

Corporal, I'm a 68W. From what I've gathered speaking to soldiers, there's little difference in the physicality and combat involvement of being infantry vs. 68W. Medics run with the infantry. We trained with an infantry DS in my BCT platoon who stressed that we need to keep up and then some with the infantry. Almost every medic I have met, whose been to a field unit with infantry, prefers it over working at a hospital. This is due to the 'top-heavy' environment and very political atmosphere. Also PT is not as intense as patient care is a priority. A lot of people failed their PT test in my department because of it. also the hospital 'soldiering' atmosphere as is very relaxed and often criticized for lack of discipline and military bearing. The Pros of the hospital though is the experience you get and training with various medical practitioners - if your lucky. I say that because their primary duties are demanding and training can sparse depending on your department. Yet that alone is a big gamble as your involvement varies by the hospital departments SOP. If there is something specific that you'd like to know about 68W, just PM me. Hope this gives some clarification into our MOS.

Based on my personal experience, you have to prepare yourself mentally and physically. I served 12 years on active duty and 8 years in the National Guard before retirement. It was truly an eye opener. Serving part-time in the National Guard is totally different from full-time active duty. The opportunities to succeed as a full-time soldier is much greater. The atmosphere working with a team with the same mindset is an awesome experience. Building unit spirit will motivate you and fellow comrades to accomplish every mission that's presented. On active duty, you will enhance your knowledge and ability as a soldier. You will enhance your overall health by conducting physical training on M-F. If you're assigned to a deployment unit, you might even conduct PT on Saturdays. You will develop your skills as a soldier by attending technical, tactical, and professional training classes. In addition, you will travel more. Possibly serve over seas in a foreign country. Civilian education is available at a local college or online. You will receive excellent benefits relating to health, dental, life insurance, and many other essential benefits. Married couples receive additional benefits involving housing, BAQ, and other essential benefits. The military is about opportunities. If you decide to select active duty, I wish you much success serving as a soldier for the US Army.

One of my good friends was a 56M and loved every minute of it and she made SGT in no time. She was always busy organizing Marriage retreats and Single Soldier retreats.