whats needed to not be a new member? is it a certain number of posts or are there any other requirements! im getting frustrated not being able to send pms!

patience, mostly .

constructive, informative posts will help.

in addition to writing an essay if you haven't already.

the more you contribute the more likely you will be to be promoted.

When you make good posts, contribute, help people out. People will vote you for a promotion. Just keep contributing and making quality posts and you should be promoted in no time.