Trying to figure out the next step in real estate investing.

[Jonathan Grzeszczyk]

I have made up my mind that I want to be in the real estate game. With no experience or funds to get going on this solo (currently a bartender), my thought was to join someone who is already doing it and learn along the way. I joined up with a guy running a wholesaling gig. Recently he decided to change courses and doesn't need a team anymore. 

So I am looking to see if anyone has ideas about what options I should consider to gain more experience in real estate investing as I get my finances up to make my first purchase.  I know getting my real estate license is one option, but I am looking for more than one option.

I am based in CT, so if anything specific is coming to mind let me know, open to all Ideas.