I would go with the Glock 19.

I want to buy a 9mm. I did some research and it seems there are a ton to choose from. Any favorites out there or one's to stay away from. I'm a real novice when it come to semi auto pistols.

I was looking at the Taurus @ academy. Any info on those. Seems the glock is the way to go.

If you are a Hi-Power fan there are some great deals on FN made Brownings on Gunbroker right now. Service grade pistols going for ~$400.

You really cannot go wrong with a mainstream design from a reputable manufacturer. I am a lot like Kroyal, heck, probably a little worse truth be told. I trade guns all the time. If it wasn't given to me as a gift, then it has an average life span of about 4 months before it bores me and I send it packing. That has resulted in me "adopting" dozens of handguns over the last several years. I've never had a Beretta, CZ, Glock, S&W, Sig, or Ruger fail me. With the exception of one poorly machined revolver, I've been well served by Taurus as well. I've owned two Rock Islands, nary a bobble from either. Every Kel Tec I've ever owned has digested everything I've fed it and never complained.

My current favorites are the CZ75 and the Beretta 92, for various reasons. The 92 regularly lasts our troops 30,000 rounds plus without major parts failure, and there are reports of CZ's with over 75,000 rounds fired without mechanical failure. Glocks have gone six figures as well. We live in the golden age of firearms. They are safe, affordable, function right out of the box, and with reasonable care last a lifetime.

So with all that said, visit a box store, handle everything you think you might like, or even better visit a range and rent them, then buy the one that feels best to you. Don't let $50-100 sway you if you plan on keeping it forever, you'll get that much more enjoyment out of a handgun that fits you well.