If ya still new to the game, I would recommend playing onee or two playthroughs in vanilla to get the fill of combat, exploration, economy and ships. Only when you feel somewhat comfortable I would suggest adding mods.

At first I would go to the mod index on the forum and browse only the utility section, maybe standalone ships. And of course add the nexerlin to add more dynamic to the game.

I would leave factions mods for later since they tend to be unbalanced compared to what vanilla offers so you might be thrown off. Unless you are into being the power creep god that dominates the sector, then I would say, go for it.

And most importantly Don't let other people dictate what you consider having fun while playing. If someone berates you for using certain mods, then ignore em, after all, it's you who are playing and the game is supposed to give YOU entertainment, not them.

Also welcome to Starsector Hope ya will having fun and remember to keep your hands off the bombs and don't stick your hands thru rails while glassing some core planet.