Should I become a realtor to gain experience in real-estate?

[Ashton Patterson]

I recently dropped out of college, as I felt I could find far better use of my time and money in today's world. After months of reading, listening, and watching, I have decided on real-estate investing. However, I currently have a job as a waiter, and I know that even if my investments go according to plan, they will not bear enough fruit in the short term for me to quit my job. This has led me to consider the possibility of becoming a real-estate agent, as I think it will allow me to get hands on in the industry, gain confidence with the process, become better at sales, network, have access to the MLS, and hopefully make more than I currently do. I am fairly personable and love the idea of having my pay being directly related by my work ethic. With that being said, I have a few questions for those of you that have experience in the industry:

1. The combined cost of the 60 hour course and test in Arkansas appears to be less than $500. Are there any hidden or recurring fees that I should know about?

2. Are there any issues that may arise from being a realtor and investor at the same time? 

3. Are there other jobs in the industry that could pay my bills in the short term and give me experience that may be better than being a realtor?

4. Anything else I should know before going down that path?

Thank you!