This distinction between compiled vs interpreted computer languages shouldn't matter to you one bit. Basically you instruct the computer what to do in a "language", like Perl, C, Java, etc. When you use a spreadsheet like Excel and you say add column A to column B, you are giving a program instructions about what to do. Excel is a very high level "language".

Perl is not a "beginner language". For a CS bound student, I would recommend 'C' as a first language. If not, then I would start with BASIC or JAVA. I guess this has to do with where you are headed and what you want to be able to do with software. Often what is needed is just knowledge of say SQL for database queries and some spreadsheet voodoo.

Start with the idea of what you what to accomplish. If you can get this down to: "I wanna be able to do X". Then you have a goal. What is your first goal?