I have an High Elf Chanter (great starting stats plus can see in dark fairly well) about to hit lv 54 (tonite if I get to play). Chanters don't have as good pets as other casters, but are super popular with groups due to their ability to control extra monsters that arrive during battle (mez) and to increase attack speed and mana (used for spells) of others.
I started out with a dwarf paladin, which is a great way to learn to play as well. Good news is that you have a lot of choices and can have up to 8 differenet characters at once.
Welcome to EQ and enjoy the fun.