This is the place for some great advice. Many of the members and staff race and cover many different classes, skill levels, and organizations.
From a mental standpoint, I would suggest the following: set your own expectations, decide on how much you are willing to spend, and prepare yourself for a different environment (on the track) than a trackday. To some extent there are differences in the paddock as well, however in my limited experience, I have had the good fortune of attending the races and racing with the folks in NESBA.
I think this should be the first step before jumping in. The differences in skill levels and competition are somewhat like a trackday. Understanding what your goals and objectives are can keep you out of trouble and out of your own pockets for that "extra 2 seconds".
I got my license in the middle of last year and did the required two race weekends to become a novice. I started this year with the intention of running as near a full round as possible, but a get-off and the realization that the bike I was riding wasn't going to win races put a stop to it. I will likely attend and race the Summit WERA round towards the end of September of this year, but plan to run a full round next year.
I would say have fun with it and enjoy it. The competition is what I enjoy; the feeling when I am on the grid and everyone is getting ready to go for the first turn is indescribalble...the adrenaline is pumping and it truly is an amazing experience.
Again, I am sure you will get a wealth of knowledge and experience from the folks on this board. I race with WERA and will likely stay with them. There are folsk ont he board that race with CCS and can give some info. I would suggest attending a race and taking the license school...Summit Point is close to you and there is a round in September.
Best of luck!