(possible ptsd trigger alert here)

Back when I was your age, I was afraid and yet eager too. If I had to do it all over again, I would have tried to hold off for a few more years (I started at 17). Young people are drawn to it from the media, friends, etc. It's almost like "you have to" do it because of all this, but if that's not in your plans - great for you. Seriously, it's ok to wait. But address your anxiety and fears before getting into a serious relationship. Can you imagine having a wonderful marriage and sexual relationship to a great life-partner knowing he's the only one? Very few of us can in today's western world.

One warning for you too, which I hate to bring up. My wife's first sexual encounter was in college. She was attacked by a guy who was at a club they were dancing at (after they left the club) - got her pregant by that too. She quit college due to that, whole life changed. Sex, done wrong, is very damaging. So, be careful out there. Also, when dating guys in college or out in the world - you have to make it clear what you want and don't want. Under the right circumstances, it's great. Be strong and firm and make sure you go out with friends when you first start dating a guy to get to know him.

In my opinion, be afraid of the person, not the act. Many guys are not interested in real relationships - just the physical parts. These people will let you down - look for someone with a heart and a head (on their shoulders) who knows themself well and who doesn't have any hidden agenda.