Awesome! I assume you're looking to eventually work as a pilot correct? What kind of job are you interested in? Airlines, corporate, cargo, etc?
If you don't have a 4 year degree yet, consider getting one. It's pretty much a requirement everywhere nowadays (though there are exceptions). Doesn't have to be anything aviation related, or even technical.
Anyways as far as instruction goes, be prepared to spend roughly $150 per hour. $100 for the aircraft rental, and $50 for instructor fees. Each flight will likely be about 1.5 hours, with some ground instruction before and after each flight (this is not ground school). So about $200-$250 per lesson, depending on how the lesson goes. The price you were quoted sounds about right. I ended up spending a bit more than that, but that was because of a bad winter causing me to put my training on hold.
Also, make sure you understand that any price you are quoted is just that, an estimate. It can take anywhere from 40 hours to 100 to get your PPL. If it does take 40 hours (minimum) it doesn't mean you're necessarily an incredible pilot. And if it takes 100 hours, it certaintly doesn't mean you're a bad one. Just happens that way. So it could be more or less expensive. But if you find your instructor is intentionally gouging you or prolonging your instruction without reason, either figure it out, or go to another instructor. I had this problem.
If the only plane they have is a 172, thats ok. They are a great plane and have proven themselves as an excellent trainer. If you can find a place that will rent a Cessna 150 or 152, they tend to be a bit cheaper to rent. (smaller. only 2 seats) Personally I favor Piper aircraft like the Charokee/Warrior. Low wing plane and just seems to fly nicer. Very different characteristics on landing though, so if you start in a high wing plane probably best to stick with it until you have your PPL.
Enjoy!