Welcome to the Universe! As a full scale pilot who now flies RC I found the simulator to be the biggest help. I spent maybe 40 to 50 hours on it before I went to the field. I used a 40 size trainer, and at the end of the first day was able to land it myself, but, I was still on a buddy box with the instructor. An instructor is a must for the first few flights IMO. I, personally, believe that having flown full scale does help in many ways. You understand the physics and dynamics of flight, you understand the need to slow down and flare in order to land, and also know how the various controls effect flight. Get a simulator, trainer and instructor and you will be flying on your own in a short time. Good luck!