I'll also echo the "practice kit" thing, especially for desoldering- solder stuff on, take it off, do it agin.

Also, good tools and supplies- kester solder and liquid flux.

It took me quite a while to figure out that my preferences are for desoldering braid that's been soaked with liquid flux- if I use a manual pump it's going to be rough. I am hoping to get a hot air station at some point but I haven't been doing enough work to justify it over my ancient hakko.