My opinion - (as a relatively 'new' quilter in terms of time)
Learn the blocks that appeal to you. Make the quilts that appeal to you. You'll get practice enough making them to master them or decide they aren't your style.
I thought about a sampler - and made one block for it -- not necessarily my thing. However, if i were to find enough intriguing blocks, or a sample that caught my eye - I might give it another go!
While you need sewing skills, learn about colors, fabrics, sharpen your math and geometry skills, follow your eyes for things you like, pick colors out of nature...
I say find something you like & jump right in!