Best free/low cost future proof email/Ubuntu noob questions

I need an email that looks official ie., not yahoo, gmail, or even my student email that ends with hccs.edu. I am gonna transfer next year(not future proof).Have had several yahoo accounts with windows and outlook, but I have to find an email shortcut for Ubuntu like Windows has outlook. Any suggestions? Experiences, tricks for ubuntu in general?
I like Ubuntu so far, but have yet to put it to practical use; Have not tried to transfer files from openoffice to microsoft office, tried dual monitor with nvidia integrated card, but can't find a solution.

 

I don't like Vista, so I downgraded to XP, XP then started tripping and I looked up free OS's with a nice GUI. Windows and OSx don't give you the kernel to mess with and I thought It'd be a fun hobby, making programs for inoperable drivers and whatnot. So yeah, to be cool.

 

Read it was in the past and on its last leg. Correct me if I'm wrong.