Accessing Root user, sudo not working

Hey all,

I am new to Linux, and the tech community in general. I have installed Linux 64 bit with VMWare Fusion and it works. I am not allowed to do much on the command line because I can not gain root access, and my account is not authenticated when trying to run sudo commands and type in the password. I am sure this a common issue with many different avenues of approach and I have tried many things. If anyone knows how to help or point me in the direction of a resource that will, that would be awesome.

Thank you