So for the goal minded folks out there, here is the "Point" of playing SWG:

1) Learn the basics of the game for a while so you don’t appear to be a newbie.
2) Accomplish all the different types of missions, from the quick and straight forward Mission Terminals to the multi-legged and more varied NPC static quests. You may need to travel beyond your starting city to find the more involved ones.
3) Gain enough money to buy (or gain enough skill to make) a good weapon and other equipment that suits your character...