Looking for a brokerage (part-time)

[Lisett Tito]

Hello! 

I recently passed my real estate exam. I work full time as a psychotherapist. I am currently looking for a brokerage to work with in the Chicago area. 

Why did I get my license: I enjoy my job as a psychotherapist, having the ability to sit with individuals, listen to their stories and work with them in the process of healing is definitely a privilege for me. However, mental health also encompasses financial well-being, which from my experience isn't addressed enough. As an active investor I want to continue to help other succeed in all areas of their lives. I want to keep learning, networking, investing and growing with a brokerage that is aware and mindful of my current schedule. 

Any particular brokerages that offer education and flexibility with work schedules? Questions I should keep in mind when interviewing? 

[Austin Johnson]

I'm a new agent as well, so I wanted to share a bit of advice I found here on BP when searching for a similar answer.
(I cant recall the precise wording so I'll ad-lib it) when you first start in this business, it's common to look for the best commission splits. who is going to give me the most on my sales? but I was urged to look more into who is going to answer my questions when the buyer is flipping out and you're on a deadline crunch and you don't know the answer.
Who is going to have local answers regarding your market and connection for contractors, etc? who is going to guide, mentor, coach you as a young agent into become a successful agent? I was also told you can always change brokers later. if you join one with poor commission splits now, but you gain a ton of experience, knowledge and guidance then switch to higher commission broker. are you better off than joining a great commission split now and having zero help? The more I read, the more I understand to look at life on a 5,10,15 year timeframe. which one will lead to long term success? 
personally; I interviewed on the phone with EXP and really enjoyed them. I interviewed in person with a local brokerage and joined them. will I ever leave? who knows. EXp is a great concept with LOADS of talented agents. myself, I enjoy looking someone in the eyes and shaking their hand. but that could be the small town boy in me, haha. every person is different and that's why there's so many different options. it's like asking 'what brand of running shoe should I go with?"