My introduction to the world of roleplaying was different, but probably no better: the entire party died to the first encounter. (Then again, we were playing Call of Cthulhu...)

Fortunately, I had a much better series of experiences once I went to university, the highlight of which would have to be a 4th ed campaign that ran for two years. This is mainly because of the homebrew magic items the party picked up as we progressed, including Tenser's Floating Tea Tray, as well as a stone that turned you pink while you held it, but only from the point of view of everyone else.