I am a recent college graduate with a degree in mechanical engineering, largely influenced by the idea that the only way to make a living is to secure a degree and land a job with a good income. 

What might influence it in the future? 

Meanwhile you finish said degree so you can hit the ground running when you have full-time job & moneys.Last thing you want is to be influenced by a deal gone bad and have it negatively impact your education - which will be there lifelong and no one can take away.

As much as agents can "influence" a purchase, the buyers ultimately decide and usually could care less if their agent makes 2.5, 3, 4, etc %.

I noticed that all the STR influencers started doing value add projects instead as well shifting from buying turn key... as turn key really doesn't work anymore.

Winter business in the Poconos can be influenced by your distance from one of the main ski resorts (Camelback, Jack Frost/Big Boulder, Blue Mountain, Shawnee). 

At first sight they should no longer influence you in any way, anymore.

.😜 David, your post takes me way back to the "Influence" system BP used to have back in it's wild wild west.

I was confident I would be able to generate enough business for myself through my sphere of influence, networking, referrals, and self marketing. 

If you're new to real estate without a large sphere of influence, you'll likely be focused on one who provides guidance, training and referrals.