Riding with a group is a great way to become a better and stronger cyclist.

Ask questions when you get there if you are uncertain about protocols.

Don't overlap the wheel of the guy/gal in front of you. Offset is okay, overlap--No! You'll be the one to go down, BTW, if there's contact.

Don't worry about being dropped. Different rides and even different groups that meet up for the same ride have different flavors. Some are no drop rides/groups. Others, you're gonna just have to do your best to hang on as long as you can. And it's okay to be dropped. One day you will not get dropped and you will feel a sense of satisfaction about your riding.

Watch out for sketchy riders. Some folks refuse to listen regarding safe cycling practices. I'm talking the red light running, wheel overlapping, speed changing yahoos. Avoid those folks once you figure out who they are.

Most of all--have fun!