I agree with Skylae. Of course, it never hurts to connect with and learn from other practitioners and see what is going on in the community, but the only way you are going to build your own practice in the most authentic and genuine way is to do the research yourself. If someone tells you "so-and so is like this," make sure you are (a) not taking their UPG as fact and (b) verifying with sources to come to your own conclusion.
I also recommend keeping a journal/incorporating some kind of daily expectation into your practice. Take notes on what you research, make note of certain things you see/experience, start practicing divination and recording the results, etc. Sometimes the best way to learn and make connections is by looking back at what you've already done/experienced.