Congrats on getting your fist HAM radio! -Now go get the license! :-D
As you start using the radio, keep in mind that, as a rule of thumb, you can expect an operating range of your radio which is equal to "line of sight" and then a little bit extra, but stick to "line of sight".
In other words: To reach a repeater, you should expect to be able to see the mountain top it sits on, otherwise you may not be able to reach it. -And also keep in mind that just because you can hear the repeater, doesn't necessarily mean it can hear you, or hear you well.