You are going to love this hobby. I have been a modeler for most of my life, & was also a military jet pilot in the early 60's. I still fly R/C & it's a lot tougher than flying a real bird. I never put a scratch on a full scale A/C, but I've dug a ton of smoking holes with models. I found that the only truly usefull crossover was my knowledge of flight dynamics -- my early modelling experience helped with F/S flying -- not the other way around.

As for advice, I pretty much agree with Campy. Have a look at: Hobbico Nexstar, Hobbico Superstar, Hobbico Avistar, Sig Kadet LT-40 -- or any other similar high-wing trainer type. As for engines, I suggest a .46 size ball-bearing-crank sport engine such as: Thunder Tiger .46 Pro, OS .46 AX, or Evolution .46 NT (personally, I favour the TT .46 Pro -- I have 5 of them). Your radio should be as good as you can afford and common with the brand used by the majority of modellers in your local area, so that you can get "buddy-box" training by an instructor (you will need it).

Welcome and enjoy yourself