Just to add my two cents to the conversation - I would say if you are serious about getting picked up, definitely get your PPL. Also, I would visit the unit if you want to get an interview.
I have my PPL, and my track record getting an interview has been 4/4 for interviews of units that I visited so far (still waiting on one more I visited: Denver). Then, I am only 3/10 out of the units I didn't visit (all of these interviews are for heavy units). So, at least visit the ones you are serious about, if you can! It definitely helps, and if you are looking to go fighters, it is practically a requirement.
*****Speaking of Denver, has anyone heard anything back from the F-16 unit about interviews? I haven't received a rejection or anything yet.