I started WvW a little while ago, so here's some tips from newbie to newbie.
1. Just get in there and do it!
Don't sit around thinking about whether you should or not! If you have any urge at all to start WvW, go for it! I've found that it's a nice environment that is friendly to new PvPers.
2. Don't stress too much about your profession.
All the professions have their own strengths and weaknesses. Personally, my go-to PvP girl is an Elementalist that wields a staff. I love raining meteors from the skies! If you're really worried about it, try a class that can fight from a range; it's a bit easier that way.
3. The most important task is not always out in the front-lines.
Sometimes, especially if you're a ranged profession, you'll be most valuable on the top of your keep, fighting from above. Sometimes you'll be most useful manning a ballista or a battering ram. Sometimes the most valuable job of all is to repair the keep gates after the enemy gets pushed back.
As far as I can tell, however, escorting Dolyaks is generally not where you're needed.
4. Know where you need to be and be there.
If the enemy's at your keep, you need to be there. No exceptions. I don't care if there's an epic battle on the bridge to the enemy's fortress, you should be guarding your territory. It's more important to keep the territory you have than it is to gain more (or die).
5. If someone says they need reinforcements, head there.
Self explanatory. If you're within a reasonable running distance, and available, head on over immediately!
6. Don't worry about your level or equips so much.
You're all bumped up to level 80 anyway, and you'll survive just fine as long as you stay at a range when possible. Even if you do die, it's not that big of a deal, really. Just make sure that you have the weapon you want, and try to have your skills trained before starting (but that's not really necessary. They'll be all trained up before you know it).
7. If you see an unguarded enemy Dolyak, take it down.
This is pretty self-explanitory. If there are guards or enemy players nearby, don't attack it without a group.
8. If you want something different to do, try escorting your world's dolyaks.
It's a bit dangerous, but somebody does have to do it. Groups are safer, but even one player can sometimes discourage a single enemy to steer clear.
9. Supply camps are almost more important than keeps themselves.
If you have the option between protecting a keep and protecting a supply camp, I would say to think it through rather than just rushing to your keep. Which is closer? Supply camps often have less people attacking and guarding, so I generally say protect it; but honestly? If you're all the way across the map and the keep is closer, or if you're already right near the keep, then head to the keep. By the time you make it to the camp, the battle will probably be over.
I hope these tips are a bit helpful to anyone who's a bit wary about starting WvW. I've found it to be a pretty friendly community; on my server, at least. Jump on in!
If you're new to WvW and happen to be on Isle of Janthir, feel free to come and find me; I can show you the ropes. Ophelia Violet is the character. Cardboard Viking is the ign. :)
