@Benjamin Williams seems like you're in a very similar situation to me.... however I'm a bit ahead of you as I will graduate college in August with a degree in mechanical engineering.
like you, i've got the real estate bug... it consumes my mind and outside of school work, its the only thing i watch, read, listen, or think about. after completing a year's worth of experience as a co-op, i realized that engineering is something i have no desire for and that i could not and would not do this all my life. unfortunately for me i didn't realize real estate is what I'm passionate about until I was a junior, so there is no way i would drop out that late in the game...
However, there is an upside. Engineering is a great field to be in, and it will provide me with a solid income to expedite my REI process. Like you i want financial independence. You could also view computer science as your vehicle to get you into real estate investing. Computer Science is a HOT space to be in right now and will guarantee you an above average income starting out. But if you are going to be paying out of pocket for your education, i would avoid this route if you intend on doing real estate eventually.
If I was in your shoes, yes i would drop out and go balls to the wall with a career in real estate.....HOWEVER i would caution you to make sure this isn't something that's new and exciting for you that will eventually fade. i had to do the same type of soul searching for myself a year ago, and here i am a year later with the same hunger for REI. I can't wait to graduate so i can start in investing!
Hope this was able to give you some clarity.... i felt compelled to respond because there is not many young people (younger than 25) on here. Im 23 so i felt i could relate a little more
Good luck.
