first off, congrats on the car. Nice car, especially when you are 18, and when it is a gift
Like others have said, go get some instruction and seat time at a track day or autoX. the 30i with stock sport package is a capable car and will be a lot of fun.
I know what you mean about the power. Sometimes I think my 35i is a slug too so we all feel that way from time to time.
Congrats and enjoy. Try not to let the relatively low straight line power bother you and enjoy the handling and other aspects of the car.