I can give some of the benefits in summary based on my experience.
You get to meet people online, discuss so many issues ranging from politics, business, entertainment, sports, religion to romance. You also get to learn from other people's wealth of experience since nobody knows it all. It is an avenue for sharing your problems and getting real life solutions on such issues like your business, education, career, phones, computers, and even relationships!
I think its a good forum to join because its really difficult to meet all these people in real life and chat with them physically to learn this much from them.
Lastly, you get updates on global affairs, some humour and sometimes people get on your nerves!!

Welcome to life.