New Mage

[Kodim]

So, I'm new to Everquest and Mage entirely. I have a few questions that I'm unsure of, and general advice that is helpful.

Currently 17 Gnome Mage, and the Nybright Sisters is my current income. Should I be saving up for something, or trying to get geared at all? When I join a party, everyone is so geared out, that it's rather embarrassing. I have kept up on my spells, however.

Any other general advice that would greatly benefit someone freshly new to EQ (and Mage) would be much appreciated.