Starting in college town rentals? Or is there a better option?

[Ragan Street]

I'm 18 years old headed to college in a few months and I'm ready to start real estate investing. I am thinking about college town rentals around the college I will be at for the next 4 years. I have $15,000 saved up for investing but I do not have enough credit to get a mortgage on a property. I have a mentor who may be interested in investing with me. 

What would you do if you were in my position?

Should I use an investor and try to get a rental?