There has been a lot of people in this thread telling you what to and what not to get. I think really it is what you want. Dont get something you're not going to enjoy keeping just because everyone says that is what you need. Nobody wants to see you get hurt either. So take as much time learning as you can with a mentor. When you feel the time is right go for it. We all started somewhere. I did not have anyone teaching me the ropes, but man I wish I had. You are lucky on that aspect. Just be careful and always stick to the rules, it could mean your life when dealing with hots. If you need to clean water bowls or cages but dont have the time to take the snake out first, then just dont clean that day. Being in a hurry will get you hurt. That is all I can recommend, but in the end get an animal that makes you happy everytime you look at it.