Though credentialed with a degree in real estate, I have not seriously pursued this effort for my own self interests.

Did you think to take a picture of the thermostat set to 40 degrees? 

At the time I was finishing my degree so I decided to attend the local REI clubs where I was in Riverside, CA.

The good thing is, your college education will count towards your experience once you start working in the field of your degree, allowing you to make a purchase sooner than the 2 year work history requirement.

In fact I believe most central banks are trapped at the zero bound and that we're all turning Japanese (Whose 'Lost Decade' is now old enough to be graduating with a master's degree) because low interest rates distort investment and hurt savers who would normally be a big part of the spending in consumer driven economies.

Finish my degree(s) in finance and economics and begin investing in real estate in order to build wealth and income. 

I graduated with a bachelors degree in Biology in 2009 and upon receiving my first "real" job, was offered to contribute to a retirement plan.

I am currently in school pursuing an undergraduate degree in Sports Management.  

You are correct that I did not spend as much as I did in my profession/degree.

You've been contributing a little while already (by your post count) and it shows your inherent interest in RE.Rockefeller once said he would rather hire someone with a great attitude than someone with more degrees than a thermometer without one.