First off, welcome aboard. We're happy to have you with us.
Making recommendations to someone who is just entering the gun world is not an easy task for either the one making the recommendation or the recipient. The first thing I would suggest is to learn about guns as much as you can before just jumping in. This means magazines, perhaps a few books, and visits to shops and gun shows. Please be aware that just because someone works at a gun shop or has an FFL does NOT mean they are all knowing about firearms. Many times the opposite is the case. So learn how to separate fact from fiction and old wive's tales, and that includes gun enthusiast websites.
Learn terminology and the various descriptions about action types, firing systems, and the terms of important components of firearms.
As has been mentioned, try to visit a range where you can rent guns to use on the range. This will give you an opportunity to get the feel of specific guns, how they point, their sight alignment, and how they ride in your hand(s). Once again, do your homework because if you don't you are likely to wind up with a gun that does not serve your purposes as you had hoped.
Take some training both in safe gun usage and the laws of your state. I cannot stress this enough.
Buy the best quality you can afford. Do not trust your life to a SD gun that has a history of problems. The loudest sound in the world is a "click" when it should be a "bang".
Learn, learn, learn. I know I already said this but it is worth repeating. Never assume you have learned all there is to know because if and when that time ever comes, you could find yourself open to all manner of evil.
Finally though I should have said this first, determine whether your choice is going to be a revolver or a semi-auto pistol. Revolvers are easier to learn and use. Semi-autos offer greater firepower. There are some excellent choices out there, so do take your time and don't rush your decision... unless you are of a mind to start a collection.
Good luck and keep us abreast of your progress.