I'd ignore those people. We bought entry level 26" hardtails, had them a month and a half when we traded them in for full suspension.

Go for what is most comfortable for you and ignore what others say. There is no wrong choice and saying you won't learn anything on a FS is just bs.

I got a bike that was far above my ability level, but because of that I was willing to try things that I wouldn't even consider on the other bike.