it was my first character. i didn't have any problems finding groups. exp holes didn't ever really bother me. if you died and had a big hole, you could still rank pretty easy with a good group. survivability is good with a few potions. you can ask around to find out about gear. when someone needs a tank, just tell them you will help them if they give you some information on where to get gear/preps. grouping with goodies and evils will help you learn lots of areas. i had fun and thought it was a good first character.