What are the best ways to educate myself about REI before my first deal?

[Jeffrey Lester]

Hey, BiggerPocketers! 

My name is Jeff, and I'm headed to college next year. I was prepared to jump the gun this summer and take a shot at flipping a house, but then I realized that I have no experience, little knowledge, little money, little credit, and literally zero chance of getting a bank loan. 

So, I figured that the best way to start would be to learn (I'm sure many of you would agree).

What are the best ways to learn, in your opinion? I'm listening to the BP podcast, participating on the site, reading books, and trying to do mock-up property analyzations. My primary interests are buy-n-holds, starting with single-family homes in the (hopefully) near future. Eventually, I want to move up to commercial real estate - particularly apartment complexes and hotels (yes, that is a ways down the line!).

Also, does anyone have book suggestions for me? I'm going to be a bookworm this summer. 

Thanks guys. As always, it is much appreciated!