@saramiamibch Hi welcome. You can use Mastodon by internet browser for full functionality. Search for hash tags for topics you are interested in. You can follow the hash tags. You get a better feel for the people when interacting. Observe yourself why do you decide to follow someone, then improve you profile accordingly. Note to myself: I have to update my profile too. 😃
If someone annoys you, then you can block the person individually or the whole community.