Is buying a duplex when I go to college a terrible idea?

[Jordan Banks]

My name is Jordan, and I'm 17 years old. I'm interested in real estate investing and have one year until I graduate high school. I'm considering buying a duplex and renting out one half while my girlfriend and I attend college. I just can't come to terms with throwing away money that I would never see again like with an apartment. I believe I could qualify for an FHA loan, but I'm not sure if I would qualify if I used a co-signer. How can in know if I'm getting a good deal? I want to make sure I understand every step involved in this process. Thanks in advance.