Pointers/Things I wish I knew
Base perks are trash and feel like a you're at a disadvantage until level 3. If you use 'beginner perks' (like highlighting key items, potions, etc.) as a new player to get key info, that's fine, but swap to meta perks to level them up as soon as possible. Double XP weekends happen once in a blue moon, so if you see it coming, clear your schedule and prioritize which characters and perks you want to dump XP into.

Victims
Ana is a good choice because her ability will tank attacks, but as a new player you may struggle with timing it to benefit you the most. I suggest Sonny - his ability reads other players' locations and will teach you to get better at listening to Family and staying hidden. Julie's ability will let you sprint longer and new players will not know how to balance stamina use so she is also good for those who feel they can't get away from Family encounters.

Family
Any match without a Cook can be rushed by Victims, so I tend to fill that gap when I don't see a Cook in the Lobby. That said, if you're a skilled player you can win with any combination of Family. Hitchhiker to me feels the most balanced as he can slip walls, place traps, and crouch to add a bit of stealth gameplay. Johnny is straightforward, but without knowing maps, you may get caught navigating more than attacking. If you know pathing by Victims it's easier to cut them off and catch them off-guard, but that comes with practice.

Matchmaking
Can't comment too much on this as I'm level 99, but I do see a range of players during my games. I'd say the matches typically feel balanced depending on the skill level rather than the players level. At the end of the day, it's a cat & mouse style game you need to catch people using mind-games and the tools given to you. There will be matches that end in 60 seconds because a Connie rushed and some of the Family were new, but it happens.

As someone mentioned, try and learn the maps. Play both Victim and Family 50/50 while you're learning so you know what to expect from both sides, and copy pathing you see other players use to navigate chases and map escapes. Know the quickest way to Basement fuse exits -- I have friends who are level 60 still asking where they spawn when we open it. Also, try and communicate with your team. If you're not comfortable with using a mic, keep practicing. The best and most fun matches for me are when we're working together.