I know it's an extra step on an already big leap you're taking, but talk to people while you're there. Make friends. Seriously, it's very easy to get into the habit of just showing up, holding signs, being loud, then going straight home when it's over. It took me 4 years of doing that to actually start conversations with other protesters and join an organization. Now I get to be part of a community and it's so much better when you're working towards goals with comrades than acting alone.
I know it's an extra step on an already big leap you're taking, but talk to people while you're there. Make friends. Seriously, it's very easy to get into the habit of just showing up, holding signs, being loud, then going straight home when it's over. It took me 4 years of doing that to actually start conversations with other protesters and join an organization. Now I get to be part of a community and it's so much better when you're working towards goals with comrades than acting alone.