[pct-l] New Hiker Seeking Advice

[-Mountain Goat-]

Couple things come to mind. One is that everyone for the most part will hike at a different pace. As such, be prepared to be 
along even if you are hiking in a group. I started with Robo Cop, but we were together all of 5 days before he lost his memory, and had to get 
him back to civilization. He did eventually complete the trail in 2007.

You
 may be able to find a friend or group on the list, and that may work 
out well for you. Another option, is just go, and forms a friendship or
 group on the trail.

Here is the hard question-
Is doing the trail more important than sticking with a partner or is the partner more important than sticking on the trail?

I
 decided that The goal was to do the trail. Because it is difficult to 
stay with someone for 5 months, even a .1 mile per hour difference and 
the differences how long you need to rest, will put you a few miles 
apart by the end of the day. Yes, you can make it a priority to stick 
with someone, and that is your choice. It does give you comradely and 
protection, especially if your a gal. 

pluses of partner.
security, group comradely, somebody to talk to while on the lonely trail, help if you get hurt, protection. 

Pluses
 of being as a solo hiker, with loose affiliations. - easier to hike 
your hike, no resupply differences. When your ready to leave town you 
go. Possible cost savings because you don't end up staying in a town 
longer than necessary,
 etc.