I can answer some questions from a blue perspective. There's people later at night to group with especially in the more popular areas. 2-3 hours with a group is plenty, unless it's specifically stated beforehand (doubtful in almost all areas) you're not going to be yelled at or anything for leaving early. Just try to give the group some advance notice of when you're leaving (like 20-30 minutes) and you're good.
The shaman is a fun class to play and is good enough as a healer in most situations, although a cleric is better. A cleric has better HP buffs, but a shaman has a host of other buffs clerics don't have. They have many de-buffs for mobs (including slow, which slows attack speed of the mobs and is one of the most powerful spells of the game) and a better package of offensive spells. A shaman can also solo very well in this game and clerics don't solo very well (or at least very efficiently). So that's something to keep in mind.
Another class you may consider, based on what you've said here, is enchanter. They're a huge support class that isn't really focused on offense usually (in groups). Their buffs are probably the most sought after in the game and are wanted in groups for them and also crowd control of mobs. They solo extremely well too. Just extremely versatile overall (but no healing at all on an enchanter).
You couldn't go wrong with either of those two classes or a cleric. Clerics are a great class, but being your first char you might want something that solos a bit better and something you can go out and farm some money with. You can only learn so much by looking at guides and reading up on spells. You'll find your niche as you play. Don't be afraid to create an alt or a new main character if you don't like the direction of the one you have.
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