Welcome to FT and prepare to have lots of fun. I distinctly remember being in your shoes about three years ago. I was fresh out of college and wanting to explore the world. Now, three years later, I've been to close to 40 countries and all 50 states on a very modest budget and often in premium cabins.

I would also recommend that you try to make it to one of the Flyertalk "DO's" (see the Community Buzz forum). While I have learned a ton by spending hours reading FT, I think there is some degree of accelerated learning that takes place if you can find the time to meet up with other FT'ers (especially those who are interested in the same programs as you are). I have found DO's very rewarding.

FT rocks!