Newbie trying to collect her thoughts (and your ideas)

[Havefaith]

I'm brand new to all of this, and love it! I'm trying to create my character and want her to have a hand on the occult. I was thinking paranormal boarder. Like she comminucates with ghosts, but doesn't hunt them and abolish them (and maybe they live in her home?). Or perhaps she's into marine life and the sea, but its a 'those who cannot do, teach' situation. I'm spinning my wheels and am getting nowhere. Any ideas? Thanks

[The Corsair]

The first thing I'd say you should do is figure out exactly what your character is for. If it's for a particular story/roleplay/whatever then think about how your character will enrich the story (not just 'fit' it).

If it's just a general 'steampunk character' for you to become (not compulsory, of course) then you probably want something you know you won't get sick of, meaning you should make sure that having an occult character isn't based off you having an 'occult phase' (I'm not saying you are). The other option would be to make them very adaptable. A good example of this would be a 'fringe scientist' who could have some expertise in all sorts of places (magic, occult, reanimation etc) and you could add new skills in all sorts of places to your character.

[Newchurch]

I think you've got some interesting ideas there.  Suppose you were an amateur scientist.  Mary Anning became famous for finding fossils of pre-historic creatures (plesiosaurs and icthyosaurs in particular) along the Dorset coast.  Your interest might be more in supernatural history, rather than natural history.  Perhaps you hope to make some important discoveries about water sprites or other supernatural marine life?  You could have quite a collection of things in jars, or other specimens.  You could even end up being invited to participate in a voyage of exploration on board a ship like HMS Beagle, or even the Nautilus.

Communicating with ghosts could get you a long way too, with the maritime connection.  If the drowned sailors could talk, what tales they could tell.  Would you seek treasure, or justice?

[The Squire]

You might want to check out this thread and consider joining The Esoteric Order of the Brazen Dawn.

[Argus Fairbrass]

As has been said the alternative of just being yourself is always an option (we won't mind honest).