First Grow, Have a few questions

Whats up everyone i am new to growning and am very excited to get started. I want to do it right and am looking to spend a decent amont of cash. The room would be small probably about 18 sq feet at the most, so lighting wont be to expensive. I am open to all sugggestions for lighting becasue i am not sure wether to go with MH or HPS. Ive heard alot about both and really want some expert advise to help me decide. Ventalation will also be important and any advice on that would also be appreciated. Ive heard about carbon filters but am not really sure about what they do and how to install them. Any adivce will be gradly appreciated.
Thanks

Read the "stickys" at the top of each grow forum, and the Cannabis FAQ's....:thumbsup:

You have to have enough basic knowledge of growing, to have a grow plan: start to finish. Just winging it every day, doesn't work very well. It helps to speak the "grow" language...comprende?