Being in a faction always helps. But it Depends what kind of player you are. If you like pvp play Crucible. Rewards drop according to your light. Save iron banner and Trials when your light is higher and you're accustomed to your class. If you like pve theres archon Forge, strikes, nightfall, and raids to name a few. Sadly a raid group might be too difficult to find if you're new. Lfg posts are mainly full of "must have emblem" or "know what to do" but I'm sure you can find people willing to help.