I live in Canada so my perspective might not be quite as useful to you. Our smoke jumping program is quite a bit smaller then that of the US and our fire seasons are usually shorter so its a bit harder to make a living as a full-time Wildland FF.
I was a Wildland firefighter (Helitack) for 9 seasons and the last 4 of those were as a Smokejumper. It was by far the most exciting and fun job I ever had. There is no better way to get to work then by chucking yourself out the door

It is also one of the best communities to be a part of. The camaraderie is unbelievable, and I even had a few opportunities to work with some unbelievable crews from the states.
It can be some of the hardest work you'll ever do at some points and some of the longest days sitting in the rain or back at base waiting for something to happen. You get to see some of the most beautiful country out there and I got to travel all over BC and other parts of Canada. Often to places that likely never saw another person.
Personally I was able to fund my way through university by working the best summer job going, and after school I stayed on for extended seasons to actually make a bit more money and travel the world in the off-season.
With all that said, I eventually made the choice to move into Structural firefighting. I got tired of never having a summer to do anything personal, of never knowing when you were going to leave/come home, of not knowing what the summer was going to do and if you were going to make enough money. And at least in Canada in order to move into positions that actually can work as a full-time career you usually end up moving further away from the fire line and more to behind a desk.
I now work in what I would consider the best career choice going. I've been a structural FF for the last 13yrs and I still absolutely love going to work everyday. I still miss my days as a smokejumper but the career side has made it easier to have a family, to afford a home, have better benefits and a work/family life with summer holidays and more. Not to mention I no longer work during the early hunting seasons
I'm not sure if that helps at all but there it is. I say if you are in a position to try it then go for it. I don't know anyone who has ever regretted it. If there's anything else I can help you with feel free to send me a message. And good luck with whatever route you choose to go.