New user. Can’t do anything

Hey! I just joined reddit to look for people in my community to connect with. I can’t follow or send direct messages. A quick google told me it’s to prevent “spammers” so I have to use/have my account for a while. Does anyone know how long exactly that’s going to take? I don’t really have any other interest with the app so I’m not sure how to “boost my karma (whatever that means…). Any help is appreciated. Thanks!