There's a lot to look for and if you don't know what you're looking for, then it's just a walk and won't be all that helpful. 

You don't have to spend a lot to achieve a timeless look.

@Collin Emerson MillerNo need to join a Reia as a majority of them are holding on-line real estate meetup's.This link has numerous real estate webinar's in your area: https://www.meetup.com/topics/...

I understand that it’s a lot to take in but what do I really need to know and what I mean by that is do I really have to read the book from front to back?

Theres a whole lot to that question. 

I love my major, and that is a lot to say for someone who is not overly high on school, but I am starting to question how valuable a degree in property management really is, and if there are better ways to get into the industry.

Numerous boarded homes and substantial vacancies would put a property in a D or F class. 

It all seems like a lot to go through just to be able to write "Rental Property Business Name" at the top of documents for tenants... and I would love to hear from experienced real estate investors whether there is an easier way.

What I have learned is that age doesn't matter, there are numerous ways to speed up the experience and knowledge process. 2 years of hustling puts you 10 years ahead.

I have done this numerous times.