I need credibility, either through working for a couple of years for a company or buying my own property, starting small, and scaling with time.Now, my plan is to graduate next year (Im a junior), and get a job in a firm as an analyst in order to build that experience and mainly cover my living expenses, while on the side buy my first small property and go from there.However, and this is where I start overthinking,  I still have 1 year left in school and I want to use it to my advantage as I don't have any expenses or responsibilities other than school yet, and I want to do my first deal.

I was firmly denied and told, "we strictly do not allow short-term rentals, subletting, or anything similar".

Within the next two weeks, we will engage construction firms for engineering services and project RFP's.

I know nothing about the above firm you mention, but a quick look on their website shows they are likely offering you DSCR, so just general things to look out for in that world. 

Quote from @Ronald Rohde: Is this AJ's firm? 

Since are closing in on renewal time it may be wise to have a firm conversation with her with expectations on lay payments as well as an increase of rent.

What you want to steer clear of is the design firms types that will tell you that not only will it be expensive but take a ton of time.

To thrive in real estate investing, you must maintain a firm grip on your finances.

we are using REsimpli for our CRM and they can pull data etc. its pretty much a one stop shop for running an investment firm/renovating/wholesaling.

My firm's office is based out of Yonkers also.