Is this for real?

Hi all... I'm just getting started with this whole serious swimming thing, and at 20 I'm trying to make up for lost time. A friend of mine who was an excellent swimmer in high school is sort of coaching me now, although I'm a little skeptical about some of his advice. He suggests that I shave down like a competition swimmer in order to achieve a "better feel" for the water while I'm improving my technique. Is there any truth to this, and is there any other reason I should consider doing it? I'm obviously not anywhere near ready for competition, but I want to do whatever I can to learn quickly. Any advice on this, and any other advice for a late starter would be really appreciated!