73 amd congrats man. what radio are you gonna get. and remember you can build a quality antenna for way cheaper than you can buy them while learning valuable skills.
I went with the Explorer QRZ-1 with the new ham kit from QRZ. It's a nice little HT but not the best. I am looking for a 10m radio to get in on the HF game. I have been looking at dipoles. I have also been studying for the General class test.