Welcome to Ham Radio! I got my ticket when I was 14, and have enjoyed the hobby ever since. Others have already given you plenty to consider regarding your original post. I would like to echo the suggestion of checking out a local club. Not only will you get to see and touch various rigs and antennas, but you will meet lots of others who are "prepared", especially if the club is centered around ARES/RACES. So, once you have made your radio decision, you can talk about and see gear that we talk about here, like lights, EDC, etc.