One of the better of the 'spam cans'. Much less boring that the PA28, with reasonable handling and a realistic stall. More roomy that the C152, and with better visibility.
The T tail is a silly fashion thing. It means the elevator is out of propwash during T/O, so little elevator response until a reasonable airspeed has been reached. When it rotates, the elevator enters the propwash and becomes more lively, so it gives a non-liear response.
Also, putting the horizontal tail on top of the fin means the fin has to be stronger than usual to take the pitch forces, so it's heavier. In an attempt to alleviate this disadvantage, the PA38 has a short fuselage so that extra weight doesn't have too long a moment arm. This means the fin is less effective and directional stability is compromised. All PA38s wag their tails in all but the smoothest air as a result. You can actually see this from the ground as they fly overhead.
But - I prefer them to the PA28 or C150. They are more fun. You will enjoy doing your PPL on them.
All yokes in small, lively aeroplanes detract from the handling to some extent. There is nothing like a stick for a quick and direct control input. Yokes are well suited to touring and transpoert machines, where large and rapid control inputs are rare.
SSD