Well, I can't help you if you don't have a profile to go by. Let me know if this changes and I'll be glad to help.

Yes,that would be the first step is to fill out your profile.After that,maybe go to the welcome lounge.

You can join groups,start one.You can start a discussion.

Some groups as nick_danger explained could be considered neighborhoods.If you want,in the beginning,to have fun,stick to fun topics.

If you like to discuss or debate..well,there are places for that.

Take a look around once you get your profile done.