Not related to the original question about references, but Facebook is an amazing tool as well.

As i am new, and understand references are a powerful tool in this industry, I was curious if anyone knew of good investment oriented real estate agents that operate in/ close to my city.

You’ll find plenty of friendly, knowledgeable people willing to respond to your posts.The site has quite a few tools that can be helpful for new members.

Hello,I found this link to this short term rental calculator: https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/STR-Calculator-V2-Locked-.xlsxIt is very helpful and appears to be a useful evaluation tool. 

you can do a sep account for each property, but I'm unconvinced it's all that helpful and it makes it unclear how to handle things like minor tool purchases which are property accounted for across any properties you have.

Thank you Luke, I plan on utilizing that tool but I was hoping to speak with someone about their experience.

Looks like you have all the tools you need already, being a RE Broker. 

You’ve given me some tools to work with and gotten me started on a path with some direction. 

I also have a great proforma tool that can help you analyze the cash flow analysis. 

Looking at historical stock market returns, you can find multiple 3 year periods in which there was a significant negative return.ROTH IRAs can be a great tool, but I don't think it is the appropriate choice for meeting your goal to start REI in college.