Newbie to Ubuntu, looking for a little help getting started

[malteseracer]

I'm fighting with my new 2009 iMac to install Ubuntu. I've made a new partition, booted from the 9.04 CD I have and continued installation but it seems there is some sort of "root file" issue stopping the install. According to sources online this has to do with ARM architecture which to be perfectly honest I know nothing about. I did however create a Parallels VM with it and want to get used to it while the aforementioned issue is corrected.
When I start up Ubuntu, frankly I don't know what to do next. What sort or stuff should I install for regular use? What is already there in the form of applications I know nothing about?
Sure I could fool with it for a week or so but with my current school and work schedule that really isn't an option if I want to use it on a regular basis.
In short, what I'm asking is information or websites about getting started with Ubuntu that one wouldn't find on the first few pages of Google search "Linux Ubuntu Getting Started"
Thanks

[rokytnji]

Here ya go. Howdy and welcome to LFO.

The Perfect Desktop - Ubuntu 9.04 (Jaunty Jackalope) | HowtoForge - Linux Howtos and Tutorials

[djcrazydiamond]

thats a fantastic link!