Nails for beginners

I am a nail biter who has never gotten into having my nails done. I always see women with beautiful nails and have nail envy and curiousity/confusion on how everyone seems to have such nice nails all the time. I’ve tried press ons, but they never last for me because my nails are too short to begin with.

I don’t know the first thing about where to start. My nails are still very short (trying to grow them out and cover them with nicer fake nails)

I have paid for a nail tech to do them before and honestly can’t afford it as a student.

What is everyone doing in terms of easy DIY nails?

Or are most women going to the nail salons?

Do you do gel x at home, acrylic , powder etc I don’t know the difference between all the different kinds.

I bought items for gel x nails but am scared of getting contact dermatitis as an amateur.

Please help a girl out.

Thank you.