first time drinkining, any suggestions

hi, i will be drinking for the first time in a few days with friends. i dont want to get drunk, and i know as stupid as it sounds i told them i had beer before. what would you suggest me to have? beer or some cocktail? i dont want to puke or get drunk. I know i should drink lots of water and eat food before. Is there anything else besides these? would i puke/get drunk over a cranberry vodka or a beer or a pina colada? I feel really anxious lol. Also i am over legal drinkining age.