When you joined weren't you provided with a list of club polies and practices.. Did you think to ask? Did someone talk to you about how to get certified to fly unassisted.. did you ask?

Today we tend to reley on impersonal communication mediums like web sites and forums and email when a good old fashion faced to face conversation will save many misunderstandings.

When I joined a new club last year I asked many questions before making a commitment to join. Seems like the club might be at fault for be unorganized and you might be at fault for not asking these questions prior to joining. Since you were a member of another club assumptions could be made that you are not a total newbie and would ask someone if unsure of a policy.

Again just an opinion. When in doubt I try to find out.