Very New Player Questions

[Applebottomjeans]

Hi all, first time playing Everquest at all.

I've made it to level 6 as an Ixtal Shaman. Leveling is pretty slow. I know this game is supposed to be a grind but I'm wondering if I'm doing anything wrong. Should I be on the lookout for more quests? I've done the Curscale Armor quest a few times.

Overall, what would you be doing as a new player at my level to level up?

Sometimes I see a player type in green/out of character, how do I respond to them?

Also I named my character more of a funny name. Nothing offensive at all but also not a fantasy name, and I now know that's not the vibe here from reading forums. Is it too late to change it, or am I risking losing the work I've put into my char and should just reroll?

Would appreciate any input, tysm.