Travis,
Just in case your wondering, whats been posted in this thread is not lies.
It's critical to understand what your getting into before making the leap.
We obviously can't stop you from wasting your money, or your parents money. However were trying our best to persuade you into making a knowledgeable decision.
Anyways...
As with kits, they have to be even across the board. What I mean by that is... You can't skimp on one part or another. Especially in photography. Lenses are a CRITICAL piece, you can't just buy any lens and expect to get good results. The reason for the price difference in the lens you posted is out right quality, that is it, you get what you pay for nothing more.
There is nothing wrong with learning as you go. What you have to understand is that it's not the easiest of processes. If you are going to stick with it, great. Just make sure your willing to stick with it before you invest in it. Going along with this, just stick with the kit lens for now. Once you understand all the camera's functions and are comfy with it. That is when you make the next step into buying glass, not before that.
DSLR photography is a ton of fun. Just make sure you're not getting into it for the wrong reasons. Just because 'Pros' shoot with DSLR's (mind you they aren't shooting with XTI's) doesn't mean diddly squat.
Hope that helped
Bob