Great buy.
We got a cannon 550D and I'll probably never get its full potential even being a enrty to mod range dslr..
The wife did a "getting out of auto" class and her photos improved 10 fold.. I'd really suggest it as the pros stay up with all the latest gear with each company..
Your uncle may be just the man you need. But if he isn't a nickon man his input may be limited..
Anyway great buy.
Grab a good stand as that also helps with quality. Especially big shots like landscapes or night shots.
Enjoy it bloke.