Can a new developer drastically change Genesis theme appearance?

[Clutch34]

Hey everyone,

First and foremost, I should say that I am not a web developer nor do I have any experience working with WordPress, BUT I am determined to learn it! I have taken on a project at school to make a website for a new student-run organization (and potentially a second org, too) and I am intrigued by the Genesis framework and its apparent "ease" of use.

My main question is, as a new developer with limited HTML/CSS knowledge, does Genesis offer me a way to drastically change the appearance of any given theme? I understand that significant customizations will require HTML and CSS, but will I be able to make minor changes here and there to make the same theme look completely different? Or am I kind of stuck just changing template colors and page layouts?

I apologize in advance for this completely noob question, but I would appreciate any feedback/suggestions. Thanks!