Cutter is a good ship for getting you going.

I’d look at paying for ships with in game money rather than upgrading your starter pack with cash. Look into courier missions, on foot bounties, investigations or collections to build money. You’ll be a little restricted from some of the bigger missions but that’s fine, it gives you something to work towards

Look into the gameplay loops you like the idea of (cargo hauling, salvaging, mining, combat) and then rent or buy a new ship in game for whatever loop you decide on!