It wouldn't be the first time that a poor USB cable has had even the most experienced quad builder running in circles!

If you're "Horrible at soldering", you should practise on scrap components or some hobby circuit board. It is also really important to have a good quality temperature controlled iron, good 60/40 lead/tin solder with a flux core and to use the correct tip for the job. As with most things, if your tools are no good then even the best skills can't compensate for bad tools.