Learn to use it well, take notes and get to know it's subtleties and capabilities before you start experimenting with other brands or types. This neg is condered normal. It has blacks and whites and a nice range of grays. The high contrast is obvious in this neg. Fidel Castro would be happy with this.
Contrast is way too high.
There are so many varieties of films and papers that you simply must check around and try those that look like they will fit your needs. Same with color. I have found that certain drug stores now are processing color film within the store and some are quite good. If they clean their machines daily and do a quality control check daily the results are very good. Simply buy a Nikkor developing tank, a few reels, and a good thermometer and you're in business.