Hi kukpaboy, it is very smart of you to be thinking about investing as you are getting outta school. you're already a step ahead of your peers in that sense. $500 a month is a great start but rather than investing every month, i would advice buying every 3 months. the longer gap between your purchases is going to give you some real time experience as well as cut down on your broker fees. wait till at least next tuesday's fed meeting before you buy anything. for long term play i personally like tech and biotech companies right now along with few china plays. good luck to you!!