Getting my feet wet

[Markus]

I'm a young student here at the University of Calgary and am interested in expanding my little knowledge of wines. After reading about how healthy one glass of wine per day is, and considering my personal views that people that drink and know thier wines are really sophisticated, i'v decided to give wine a try. However, my knowledge is very limited in this area. What are some suggestions for wines (reds in particular, but some whites as well), while considering my student budget? I'm more interested in just socially drinking in the evenings with my roomates or girlfriend...I dont know if that will affect the types of wine you would suggest.

Cheers,
Mark