You also don't need to do a traditional long term strategy, is there a draw the  area that playing host to a traveling nurse or other professional/student would be interested? 

I intend to rent out the units by room to college students (does it sound like this would work in this area and what are some general tips/things I should look out for?).

Your job will be to find an investor-friendly brokerage willing to teach.

If you're a good student and can get into a good college without going very deep into debt, I believe you should go.

Property prices are lower compared to larger cities, offering the potential for higher returns, while the demand for rentals remains steady thanks to a large student population and growing workforce.

Thanks,DJ @Donald DiBuono if you still need development help after speaking with Samuel I teach people how to become the local developer in their community.

If you know of a college that you plan to go to, a single family house, duplex, triplex, or fourplex on the campus would be a great way to start out while you live in one of the units and manage/make sure to get all of the other units/bedrooms filled with other students about your age.

My sacrifice… no haircuts and no fast food. 1 job full time, 1 full time side hustle. 0 debt at the time other than student loans.

So now I'm thinking flats or small houses in towns that would be attractive to multiple markets (potentially expats, tourists, students, locals).1. 

IE the flipping shows that used to be on TV and then you had the big mentor programs teaching it  ALA Montalongo  Vertucci  etc.