So this is my first time trying to make an appointment. This specific provider mentioned she was not newbie friendly, but I told her I'd be willing to pay extra.  Here's how the convo went:

Offering to pay extra was unnecessary & might make her suspicious.  It might set you up as a "Mark" to be taken, hopefully she's not so inclined.
Ordinarily, any mention of sex acts is a no no...  talk of money and sex equals prostitution.  If one of you were LE, they'd have everything needed to convict.  But she asked you... so maybe she'll not bail on you.    
You can't expect an instant response...  it might be a day or even 2 before she gets back to you.  If  she doesn't, you can try again...  in case it went to her spam folder.  
DO ask her what she needs for screening?   And suggest a day and possible time you'd like to see her so she knows you are serious, not a time waster.    
If your age is too close to her own... a lot of gals don't like that.  

...saying that you wanted sex. That’s a big no no.

“what are you looking for?” she was probably asking whether you were looking for an incall or outcall and for how long - not what specific service you wanted; if you’ve studied her TER and P411 profiles, personal ad site and read her reviews, then you would already know what services she offers and her rates (I’d assume the rates listed on her personal site or P411 are the correct ones; the ones on TER profiles are sometimes out of date).

Look. You have to understand...this is our safety...I know for me and many others money is the secondary factor.  Safety with our clients should be #1. I don't want myself or any hobbyist in trouble, next time don't talk about services, money ...instead mention an extra hour like stated above. Eveyone has a different screening process but make it easy on yourself and find someone who will work with you. After a week...I wouldn't message you back either,it's suspicious.  

you do understand what that means? Why would you still contact her. If you’re going to be successful in this little world, you’ll need to learn how to follow directions from providers.

Oh, you're probably right. I was absolutely certain I didn't mention anything about sex. I didn't even realize it until just now. Now I feel like a complete idiot.  I don't know if she'll give me a second chance, probably not. At least now I know.

Also when she asked for my background, was she talking about my occupation or my race?

You’re not an idiot, you’re just new - and I don’t wanna sound like some old pro at this either; I started back in October and have only seen two Providers (and am really only seeing my ATF at the moment).

That’s... actually a good question.  I hadn’t thought of it like that until you asked.

I would have not even responded.  
-Pay extra (red flag)
-student (cant verify work(
-full service (mention $$ is NEVER OK).

So what would be another way to let her know that I'm serious any really interested? Do I just leave her a large tip?

Yes - heed the ladies.

1. Respect and follow her requirements and guidelines (preferred contact methods, screening, rates, who she will and won’t see, etc).  This shows that you’ve done your homework and are serious about seeing her.  If her prices are to high, her screening methods make you to uncomfortable or you don’t match what she’s looking for (e.g., she’s not newbie friendly), then just move on.

A couple of newbie pointers...  Get a separate phone like a tracfone or use an app... register the phone to a bogus name, made up address not linked to your id. Pay with cash.  Might as well start off right.    
Presumably you don't have a GF or SO yet but you might need to erase your activities sometime.  A TF & service cards costs ~100 a year.  It's cheap insurance.  
One last thing.  This is a secret world.  Keep your secrets to yourself.  Only someplace like TER can we talk about these things.  You don't ever want to have someone have power over you...   Imagine your best buddty gets drunk... maybe on your wedding day... Toasts "Ana the girl he gave up hookers for!"  
We'll tell you the secret handshake later.