Its been a long, long time. (few questions)

[Gumbler]

Well, I decided to try Project1999 because of its reputation. I haven't played Everquest since I was 10 years old. Even then, I didn't really do much in it because Ultima Online consumed my life at that time. However, I'm looking for an old school MMORPG and I figured why not play the one that started it all.

Right now, all I'm doing is outside of Qeynos killing bats and skeletons. I'm not entirely sure what I should be doing and I kind of like that.

Can I ruin my character in this game by not making the right decisions early on? (stats and such)

Is there another place I should be leveling at early on? Things I should be doing?

Any general tips for a new player?

Thanks a bunch guys!