If you have to do it alone, here's my 2 cents (what I did...)

- read, study, learn
- get a simulator. http://www.flying-model-simulator.com/ is free (I run the "Beta 7 on Windows XP) but commercial ones may be more realistic.
- start with a small high wing electric, built light (light models crash lighter). Build it right. If in doubt, ask questions. Are you sure you are not in doubt?
- go to wattflyer or rcgroups to learn about electric power.
- fly it over long grass on a windless day. Pick a huge field.