I think the reason for recommending a high-wing 'trainer type' of airplane is because they are more 'stable' and are easier to fly for a newby.
For example, with the wings bowing up at the wingtips (dihedral) if you get into a problem the plane will more likely right itself when letting go of the sticks. Low-wing planes are not as forgiving.

Find a club and an instructor and let them decide if you should start with a low-wing. The best way to find out is to fly one - with an instructor.

Also, LO-MAC will help you a little but may hinder you alot too. From within the cockpit you may understand left/right, etc but when you are on the ground it's different. I used to be a flight instructor and it took me longer to learn to fly RC than most.

Also, I think Lomcevak Duck hit on it when he mentioned confidence. If you crash early in your exposure to RC you are more likely to quit the hobby.

Good luck and welcome to RCU!