RE: RC Glider I was given.
That kit is going to be a load of work. And there are a number of hurdles.
The thing might work ok as a slope glider. Matter of fact, it might make a good one. It'll be heavy enough to work strong slope winds for sure.
To make it into a power plane might be the best utilization. The cowl is so small, it's going to be a hassle to glow it. Lots of engine is going to hang out, plus the scale airplane has almost no ground clearance for a prop. Can't tell from your pic's what the model has for clearance, but that's a MAJOR issue to sort out. Going electric is one direction, but clearance is still an issue.
It certainly will NOT be a good trainer for you if you're new to flying.