Hi Jeremy. I'm sure others will weigh in with better ideas than mine, but if you like Metallica, I might suggest learning some power chords. They're easy and will get you started playing something that is fun and sounds like music.

I think that above all, you have to keep guitar playing fun. It takes time, and if it's miserable, you'll never want to put in the time. Maybe figure out a song your friends want to play and chip away at that until you make some headway.

Regardless, welcome and good luck!