Just set up two old laptops to mine. I only have 20 bucks, looking for advice on how to grow it.

I’m 17 and just getting into crypto. I’m trying to do everything the right way from the start. I’m avoiding exchanges and keeping everything on my own device with a non-custodial wallet (no cloud stuff).

I’m starting with Monero because I care about the privacy side of things. I’ve got two old laptops running Arch. their mining right now, but I know the hardware is pretty weak so it’s going to take forever to see any real results.

I’ve only got about 20 bucks to start with, and I’m worried about fees eating half of that if I try to move it around or trade.

I’m looking for some actual advice:

1. Since I’m a teenager and can’t use big sites like Coinbase, what’s the best way for me to grow this 20 without getting scammed?
2. Besides Monero, what other projects should I be looking into that actually have good tech and aren't just hype?

I'm not expecting to get rich overnight, I just want to learn how this works while I'm still young. Any tips would be appreciated.