buying my 1st ever Mac today...any tips?

[dubhe]

I don't see the point in AppleCare, but you have plenty of time to decide on that one. Buying a case is the best protection, get a good one, it'll be with you a long time

 

[aristobrat]

Anyway if it is the higher education... i.e. university level... the 3 year warranty is free if you order online and if you buy in store

That's a cool deal. In the US, there is just one educational discount. It can knock between $50 and $200 off the price of the machine (depending on the machines original price). It's also good for knocking around 30% off the price of AppleCare. Nothing free.