Welcome to Philforum!
It seems rather obvious to suggest you continue to read widely in the tradition, take at least one course in logic, and practice written expostulation of different positions to improve your ability to think and to communicate.
Philosophy as an intellectual discipline requires that you learn (or relearn) to read, to think, and to write. There are several interesting threads in the threads here that might provide perspectives on all three (or four, if you count being a better person). Your questions are important, and at the same time to answer any of them would be a project that could consume several forums and their communities.
Regards,
John

1. Names.
Russell. Two L's. Two S's. Most people forget the second L.

2. Logic, critical thinking. You should learn it by heart.

In 1915 as a part of his Lowell Lectures at Harvard, Beertrand Russell presented his view of Logic as the Essence of Philosophy, which, with some modification, states very well my view, and what I think is Emil's view about philosophy and logic. In all its essentials, the view that logic is the essence of philosophy seems right to me
Here is the essay:

Twentieth-century philosophy: the ... - Google Books

Welcome Dr. Camus! First year of a philosophy degree is definitely an accomplishment. I hope you enjoy the forum. Also FYI, there is a Pre-Law social group here on the forum for prospective philosophers turned lawyers if you are interested.

http://www.philosophyforum.com/groups/16-pre-law-group.html

Well you sure know how to make someone interested, please interest me more.
A better philosopher, practice, patience and participation, all of which you may learn here.
A better writer, practice, patience and participation, all of which you may learn here.
A better reader, practice, patience and participation, all of which you may learn here.
A better person practice patience and participation all of which you may learn here.
Here as well as elsewhere of course, but if you were elsewhere then I would not have the pleasure of getting to know you better. My loss.
Please stay for a while.
You are most welcome.

Cool, I'm also studying philosophy.

I'd advise against Law school though (unless it is your passion in life). Stick to what you love, everything else is fluff.

Rgds