I love tek wood screws. They have a funny-shaped head that hels you start the hole, before forcing them into the wood.
If you don't have these at your disposal, Use a smaller drill bit to dig a guide hole for the screw. You have to be kind of forceful to dig the hole with a regular wood screw (something I can't help you with
)
For other advice: go slow enough to ensure you do everything carefully. Always cut slightly larger than what you need to ensure no part you make is ever too small. It's easily to make a part smaller, and very difficult to make it bigger.
Finally, listen to your mentors, and don't doubt yourself. Veteren members may not actually know more than you, they just have a bit more confidence.
Good luck with the rest of your build season!