You will have to make this decision (possibly with the help of your parents).If you need some clarity on this decision read Tony Robbins book "Awaken the Giant Within" and write out the life plan things the book recommends.

Besides listening to the BiggerPockets podcasts religiously, reading as many articles as I can, and networking as often as possible, what concrete steps can I take towards becoming a real estate investor?

I'm told many religious families, especially Jewish, have large families do this, have their Rabbi vouch for them, and  get it approved.

@Matthew Truty congratulations on your early awakening!

Apply for scholarships religiously and work your way through it.

Here's the kicker...your religious beliefs do not allow you to dabble in interest.

I've been listening to BP podcasts now for a couple of years - not religiously, but whenever I have some time.

I have a the same problem a couple lives in one of my rentals, rent is due in the 1st and $50 late fee after 7 days, they pay religiously with late fees.

I agree with William ☝🏼 That book is good (we don’t live religiously by every tip, but utilize quite a few of them).

Simultaneously, I started listening to bigger pockets religiously and I have a stack of real estate investing books I am working through.