@Account Closed do you have a mentor? How are you planning on diving into REI? Do you have a money backer? Why not get a finance, business, or an entrepreneurship degree? Here are a few good reasons I think getting a degree for any young person is important:
1) First off, you are more than likely going to have to work another job to support yourself. It takes years for most real estate agents to transition into a full time realtor and many never make it. As for investing, unless you have a PML it will be nearly impossible for you to get any kind of traditional bank financing. Also, let's say real estate market takes a huge correction, you might find yourself struggling to make ends meet along with another 3000 realtors in your market. While a college degree should always open some doors for you.
2) Aside from a degree, college enables you to fine-tune your communication skills (writing, grammar, etc.) - which will be important for the rest of your life regardless of your career. People want to do business with people that appear successful. If you want the million dollar listings as an agent or desire to network with affluent real estate investors, you need to be polished, well-spoken and educated to gain credibility.
3) More than likely you will make some great connections in college that could serve you well in the future. These classmates (or their family members) could be your next private money lender or real estate client. Plus, there are so many life experiences as a college student that will never be the same if you choose to go back years later.
Let me finish by saying I don't think college is for everyone and I don't think it's a requirement for being successful. I do, however, think it certainly increases your chances exponentially. I think you should give it a try for a year or just enroll in some evening classes as you work full-time. Best of luck to you!
