Testing out my new camera

Hi, I got a Canon Rebel XT for Christmas, and just got around to putting some of the pictures I took on my computer. I wanted to get a little feedback on these two pictures.

Hi, kawood, and welcome.
Since you want opinions on your shot, it maybe should be in photo critique forum but not a biggy, just might get more response.
I like the pose in the first. Eyes, smile, unruly hair all give the subject a happy look.
I don't think the strong light/shadow thing is quite working but it is difficult when the light is that strong.
I like the second one better and even though the light is harsh it seems to work somehow in this shot.

Welcome!

The pictures have good composition, as Frog mentioned, the light and shadows are a bit strong.

Also, there seems to be a lot of noise in the pictures. You should probably turn the ISO down to less than 400.