there isn't really that much to learn for mac.. i don't find the difference to be night and day.. just get use to ur new keyboard command it's apple this apple that no longer alt + something
what programs a must? i dunno find a program to show temp and control the fan on the laptop
i forgot the name of the one i used ~ and i'm guessing you are using it for school? i'd install windows thru bootcamp just in case you are lost and have no clue what to do and you need to do some projects hw or something