SMTP, or Simple Mail Transfer Protocol, is essential for sending emails and is governed by RFC 821, which provides comprehensive details about its operation. To get started with SMTP for university coursework, it's recommended to explore resources like Google, Wikipedia, and Steven's TCP Illustrated for practical examples and explanations. Engaging with the community by posting specific questions can yield helpful advice and guidance. For implementation, understanding the text commands sent over a telnet session is crucial. With these resources and community support, mastering SMTP is achievable.