I suggest to all newly minted gun purchasers these things.
A) Decide what it’s primary use will be. Recreation? A .22 auto or revolver or .357/.38 revolver in 4”-6” barrel lengths fits a lot of scenarios. Defense/recreation? A 9mm, .45 or .40 poly gun (Glock, M&P etc) will fill this role nicely, as will the .357/.38 4” revolver.
Defense/deer-hog hunting? .357/.38 w a 6” barrel, a .44 mag/Spl revolver or a a Glock or 1911 10mm auto steps up.
Every Day Carry? From the 2” smith j frame to an LCP up to a duty-sized G-17 or 1911 model, the primary mode of carry and the skill of the person dictates what I would recommend.
None of the above are exclusive, nor are they set in stone. They’re merely generalities that point you in a direction.
B) Don’t just hold one, try to shoot one. If there is a range with rentals nearby, try to shoot a variety of guns and see what YOU like and shoot well. The gun store clerk may have a fanboy bias, and often your friends do too...and all of theirs might not jive with yours. Handling recoil or the ability to comfortably hold and accurately shoot a particular gun for me may be more or less easy to do than it is to you, but you will only know that after shooting guns in different calibers and styles. All in all it’s your money, spend it wisely and you’ll get a ton more enjoyment from it.
C) What is your budget? There are inexpensive ways to go that don't mean it’s “cheap;” layaways, sales, police turn ins, etc. can make the pain of the initial buy a bit easier...and since becoming proficient is rarely accomplished with one trip to the range, the cost of ammo and range time for practice needs to be taken into account. ( The basic pistol course suggested previously is a great idea!)
Have fun with your quest, and realize there are as many great (and not so great) suggestions and opinions as there are firearm models. Do your homework, try some out, talk to folks and read reviews, and then make your decision.
Stay safe!