New starter...what do?

My current got me into hypixel about a week ago. Hate him rn, he didn't warn me how addictive this game could be. Now, I'm still fairly new the hypixel but not new to Minecraft (been playing since 2013). My question(s)/topic of discussion is this:

1) What is a good mining gear and tools to work towards in the early game, and how do I do that?

2) What is not worth going for straight away, and why?

3) What minion is a decent one for earning money (currently have redstone, cobblestone, oak, spruce and wheat).