never used a crock pot before! never left a post outside of apparel before!

We have a crockpot in our house, and it always seems in the way. Maybe it is time to put it to use. I am a novice cooker but I do okay. i feed my self seven times a week (big thing for a college student). I think it is time to crock pot.

what are some guidelines? Like times for various ingredients. Is it really okay to leave home while it is crockpotting? This seems like fun!