The good thing about EQ2 is that any race can be any class. Some races have better starting stats, but not by much. You will find that gear upgrades will quickly overshadow any minor starting stat.
There are 3 main paths to follow:
Sorcer = Nuker
Summoner = Pet and DoT's
Illusionist = Mez
Each has strengths and can effectiely solo in any solo mob situation - they just do it in a different way. There is no best class, just classes doing a particular thing good.
I've played a Conjurer (Mage > Summoner > Conjurer) and have a blast with it. Using the pet during battle really keeps me on my toes. Since the recent combat revamp, I've found that I'm even more deadly, and loving every minute of it.
I feel that Sorcerers with their high damage nukes, gain agro to fast and to easy, much to the dismay of group members. With my pet I am able to manipulate my spells to remain almost agro free, but it is still no easy task.
So now it becomes a matter of what type of mage do you want to be? If you like to nuke things down quickly, then a Sorcerer will be your path. If you like to control a pet that deals your damage, then Summoner is for you. If you like to control the weak minds of mobs, then Illusionist is the one.
The bottom line is that you pick something that will be fun and that you enjoy. Maybe test a few different toons until you settle on one that you like.
Good luck!