Welcome to the addiction... uh, I mean hobby!!!! John gave some great advice on getting started. You mentioned in your original post that you didn't know of anybody in the hobby to help you. Most new people that get started are in the same boat as you are when it comes to finding help. The AMA's club locater is a great tool for finding clubs in your area that can help you get started. I did a search on your zip code and came up with 9 clubs within 20 miles. You can see the results of the search here: [link]http://modelaircraft.org/ClubZipLocator.aspx?z=85233[/link] . Most clubs will have instructors that can train you to fly. Normally most clubs won't charge for training. And many clubs will set aside one or two evenings a week for instruction only, no other flying is allowed. Check around at the local clubs and find one that fits you (or more than one, you're not limited to just one club). Explain to the club that you are a student as some clubs will have reduced dues for students.

Hope this helps

Ken