Quick answer: yes it's pointless, and yes you would be better off working the other echelons if your interest is partisan politics.
That said, I think you'd be better off working issues that really excite you. If it's partisan politics, fine and dandy. Join one of the two major parties and get involved in it. Personally, I think the Democrats offer more opportunities for making progress right now. I'm admittedly a contrarian.
If it's taxes that lights your fire, get with Club for Growth. If it's guns, then come work with us at VCDL.
Don't let this go to your head, but you're obviously very bright and talented. With the writing and organizational skills you've exhibited here, I suspect you could be running the show in another forum if you chose to do so.
a Great One has chimed in privately, suggesting that one of the principal reasons the DNC has gone so very far to the left is, and I quote: "That's where the money is (Sores et alia)"
the man has a point.
I thank you for the compliment. I rather suspect the same could be said of you.