Groups - Groups are... exactly what they look like. They are, quite literally, groups. Groups of people who have a common interest, and therefore gather together virtually via activities, or forums, or email, or many other methods, to share that common interest. I can't think of a time I haven't been a part of at least one group on this site, except maybe at the very, very beginning. Through those groups, I have met people that I will never forget. It has been awesome.

Forums - So many forums! There are forums for every topic imaginable. Asking for reviews, asking for advice on how to continue on a story, talking about a genre, creating virtual worlds together, teen angst, contests... you name it, I guarantee there is a forum for it somewhere! And the great part is, now SM fixed it so you get a notification on your left sidebar when someone answers your post, so you never have to post something, forget where it is, and then worry about forgetting. It's awesome!

Contests - The Writer's Cramp (I will link it in the Editor's Picks) is the very first contest I entered. And entered. And entered. And entered some more. And then I found Dialogue 500, and I entered that one even more than I did the Writer's Cramp! There are great contests out there, some even sponsored by the website where you can win memberships or gift cards.

Email - I got an email the other day from someone who had found my username somewhere, and visited my homepage, (read quite far back, I think!), and then sent me an email to introduce himself. It was awesome! When you find people that you think might have similar interests, there is nothing against emailing them, and introducing yourself. Sometimes you may not get a reply, but on the other hand, you might! And it might just be awesome.

Reviewing - I have met several people through simply reviewing their work. I find a portfolio that I just love, and I just keep reading! Don't be afraid to step out there and give someone your opinion. That's why they make it public - they WANT to hear.