Also in the sub object of edit poly if you select all the polys/elements and clear the smoothing groups, or auto assign it will clear up some of the shading issues you have. Looking good so far, you've got a pretty good grasp on form. Keep at it =)
Considering its your first model, you did an excellent job. The internet is full of tutorials, personally I just do a google or youtube search for videos. Also, its worth while downloading a program called veoh, that way you can get your hands on tonnes of free video tutorials. As for the model itself, you have kept it…