I look online and attend meetups.

With that in mind, a sports-centered college town potentially presents a good opportunity as the school will often have visitors attending games who need places to stay. 

There are a lot of real estate meetups/groups that you can find happening in NYC and surrounding areas with a quick google search - I actually host a small one every month as well you're welcome to attend to network with folks. 

I would attend local meetups and start to meet other investors.

If you have a local real estate investment association or club (REIA) join and attend. 

I've been attending local meetups, in particular one that discussed the historic appreciation of San Francisco and what's happening in the current market down to specific neighborhoods.  

My partners and I run a bimonthly real estate event here in Tampa, you are more than welcome to attend.  

I wanted to add that the best way to attend meetups is to make it a habit.

I attend Real Estate industry related business meetings monthly at the local Realtor's Association in Colorado Springs and the insurance agents who attend have all attested to drastic premium increases over the last year...  

Unfortunately, due to an unforeseen event, me and my friend are no longer able to attend, but our loss could be your gain!