I have the ultimate goal of going vegan. I've been vegetarian for over six months and I love it. It really helped me to research the heck out of it (I can recommend books/documentaries if you like). There are blogs and even an awesome veggie forum (veggieboards.com they have LOADS of nutritional information). Although consuming dairy contributes greatly to animal suffering, I'd recommend going veg before vegan. But I'd also start trying vegan products early on (soy, almond, and coconut milks are great options).
If you go vegan, make sure you take a B12 supplement (even if your multi has B12, your body doesn't absorb it well. Go for something that dissolves under the tongue. I take this:
http://www.amazon.com/Deva-Vegan-Vit...7355609&sr=8-1).
As for protein, if you get a wide variety of whole plant foods, you will likely hit the amount your body needs. One major issue with the government is that they are in bed with the meat and dairy industries. That's why they recommend high intakes of protein and dairy. Check out this food pyramid (created without pressures from other industries...just based on studies):
http://www.med.umich.edu/umim/food-pyramid/
The China Study, Eating Animals by Jonathan Safran Foer, Earthlings, and Forks over Knives are all great resources. PM me if you need anything!