Welcome Gaia
The suggestions the others have given you are all good, try talking to people in the RP areas you visit - Most will be really keen on bringing new people in to their special worlds, Just ask OOC (Out of character) if someone would show you round or help you
Have a look for social events as well , they can be great places to meet people , but the shared interest connection is easier if the event is tied to a particular theme or interest group.
IT can take a while to get settled , think of it like moving to another city ... though to be honest everything in
SL seems much faster so before you know it you'll have too many friends and have to open an Alt account just for some peace and quiet
