I was around lv 40 or so before I got invited into Novice network, so I missed out when it would have been most helpful, but I still found a lot of value in it. Since the channel has a lot of people in it, it tends to work like a general chat with people just shooting the breeze. Every so often a question is asked and the mentors go into deep explanations of arcane mechanics. With a bit of prodding, you can get them to recount tales of dungeon exploits and other fun stories. Do not lose heart though, as you can have the same experienced with a good Free Company or Linkshell! One linkshell I'm in is so active that it rivals the novice chat.

You might have luck searching for a linkshell directly and then contacting an owner or someone with the invite power. I'd say try to find one through friends first though, since it's more fun if you already know someone there.

Linkshell search:
http://na.finalfantasyxiv.com/lodestone/linkshell/