want to be vegan!

I have been seriously contemplating my eating choices and how ethical they are. I was also recently diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes and want to develop the healthiest lifestyle possible. So... I was thinking of becoming vegan! I would really appreciate all tips to get started. What's an example of a day's meal for all you vegans out there? What are vegan essentials? I'm going off to college soon and am worried about the cost of maintaing a vegan lifestyle. Open to any and all suggestions!! :))