First time playing a Monk on classic - any advice?

[akumadarkhadou]

I am playing a human monk, level 8 in the Qeynos area, on Green. So far I have a cracked staff as my primary and a club as my secondary weapon, a few pieces of cloth armor, and a yellow headband.

I was wondering if anyone had any advice on what I should be working on as far as leveling goes, what gear I should be trying to get now or in the future, and what the main purpose of the monk is in groups?

Thanks!