If a class, ask the instructor. Or anyone familiar with Linux, to look at your computer.
How did you start a terminal from the GUI if "no" menus/programs?
Does Debian work? Try a pre-installed Kali VBox from osboxes.org
Basic troubleshooting/problem-solving skills are advisable for tech work.
Read this free Kali book:
https://www.kali.org/download-kali-linux-revealed-book