Nepenthe is exactly right, in that all the specs are good. My advice is to pick the one that sounds the most fun. As a first-timer though, I would steer you away from dagger, hand to hand, and whip/flail. All of these require finesse that comes through experience, and in many cases are better as a second spec (for a new player) than a first.

Since you mentioned sword... yea, good choice! Swords, in my opinion, are the ultimate in mob killing. Its offense and defense with out a lot of flair - but flair doesn't do much to mobs. With swords you'll be a wanted groupmate, and great at raiding.

If you have specific questions about specific skills, feel free to ask!