My friends and I did a "Beard-tober" a year ago -- no shaving for the entire month of October. It didn't change my life - I just looked like a guy with a light colored and somewhat patchy beard.
Try growing one for a minimum of six months. It takes dedication and courage. At the very least, it's a great social experiment. You'll encounter prejudice, admiration, and endless hours of fun like the guy in the link!
Also noteworthy: the type of girls I meet when bearded are of a very different type than the type I meet when not bearded. (not better or worse, just a whole different experience)
Particularly when I keep my beard tuned to "vaguely edgy".
Of course you'll have to learn to put up with lots of looks of disapproval, and old ladies holding their purses tighter around you, but that is worth it in its own right too.