In general, every group I have ever played with (going back to 1978) ignores material components for spells. I don't think it dramatically changes the game except to stop the "quest for components" discussion between spellcasters and the DM.
For campaigns, I've never had a character start at anything other than 1st level. Most people I've gamed with like to see their character progress from new adventurer to seasoned world saving hero.
I'm playing a Cleric (Life)/Fighter in one campaign who is currently 5th/5th level. I find the combination of cleric healing spells and fighter staying power makes a good combination. Being in the front line for melee in plate armour, improved critical (from the Fighter), able to make two...