Hi Molly , there are many "uber-talented players" here , many of whom are generous with their time , advice and gifting , then there are the others . It's a shame that you seem to be swimming in shark infested waters , don't let it put you off , as Courteneyfish said , find a good CC , i'm lucky that in my CC the "uber-talented player" is one of the good guys .
Congrats on the 30 anyway and who knows , you might win next weeks .