Perhaps the intent is not to make it simple for players to "min/max" their characters at the drop of a hat. Based upon my still limited experience with the game, it is much more of an RPG than any other MMORPG. Bioware wants you to be invested in your character, and have your choices matter and have consequences. To some extent, this includes ability choices by having multiple respecs cost more. If you're planning on doing both PvP and PvE, then you really should just settle for a hybrid layout or just suck up the costs. You are making the choice. I really wish MMOs didn't end up revolving around "min/maxing" and having the "optimal spec" so often.

I have leveled four PCs to level 13(ish) on Krath. I have never had to wait more than a couple minutes to get others to join for any or all FP/Heroics. This is even purely using General chat to say "LFG for ..." or "LFM for ..." I'm not generally talking just 1 person, I usually get full groups of 4 and tend to have to turn away people because the group is full. So, your experience doesn't match with mine ... although I admit mine is all lower-level stuff so far.

They get their double-bladed lightsaber, a shield generator, and a focus. Both the shield generator and focus are "off-hand" items, so the Shadow gets to choose which one to use. The shield generator has lower stats but a shield, while the focus has higher stats but no shield. Obviously, the generator is used if you plan to tank, while the focus is used for a more offensive stance.