The benefit of going to a club site is that an experienced pilot/instructor can check out your aircraft to insure it is ready for flight, i.e. assembled correctly, balanced, and trimmed. It's easy to make simple mistakes that will have disasterous results when you are a new pilot. Take advantage of assistance. Ask all the questions you can. Fly on a buddy box the first time to make sure you get the hang of it. Before each flight, run the entire from takeoff to landing in your mind. Hold the transmitter in your hand while you are doing it. Imagine a perfect takeoff, a great flight, followed by a flawless down the middle of the runway landing. Real pioots practice at home by "Chair Flying". Sit in a chair with a picture of the cockpit in front of you. Practice, practice, practice. What sim do you have. I have the Great Planes G2. Even thought i have been flying R/C for fifteen wonderful years, I still practice on the sim and fly with others on line. Getting cocky will only cost you money in repairs and replacements. I learned on the "Crash and Burn" method, but I recommend you take the smarter and less costly route. I started with an Eagle II, then I went ot a Spitfire and the rest is a long line of aircraft. Take your time and don't get in a hurry. Know your own limitations and be patient. While on that sim, practice every emergency you can think of. Program the wind to be *****in' x's 2. Throw in some cross wind effect. Learn to use that RUDDER, as it's what's meant to turn the aircraft. This is a great and enjoyable hobby with lots of terrific folks like the ones you chat with here on RCU. Sure, we have our differences of opinins, but in the end htat's what this forum is all about. Best of luck to you and Happy Landings!