I am hopeful that I can get my mentor to participate in my first deal so I can skip the 2-4 family, and jump to a 10-15 unit right away.

He should have a conversation with his tax accountant whether this would be possible if he is only providing the capital as he may potentially not have active or material participation. 

My intent is to purchase and rehab it using my Solo 401k, together with a non-recourse loan from a hard money lender (I know several via a local REIA I participate in).

My graduation year will be 2023-2024 due to the pandemic which allowed me to stay an extra year to participate in sports and add my second major!

He is one of the most knowledgeable people in that field  - tax auctions in Texas - (I have participated in deals where he solved this issue of buying just before the sale).

I’m guessing the crowd you are referring to are the western riders that participate in barrel racing, reining and western horsemanship.

Looking to meet with real estate professionals and participate in any group meet-ups to build the team necessary for successful investing in the NY/NJ area.

The rents are simply too low to make it worthwhile for honest operators to participate.

With that said, I’d be interested in participating in a Hickory group too!

I think finding a mentor can come in two parts, one is connecting with people who are involved in RE investing, and the second is finding someone who is working toward, or actually participating in a part of RE investing that you're interested in.For the former I've found it hugely beneficial to mention to everyone you talk to, friends, family, coworkers that you're starting you're investing journey!