Learning the underwriting guidelines is the first step to learning how to qualify and then you can create a budget and a plan, after that you can start looking at what market to invest in, although I will say Arizona is pretty attractive, we have super low property taxes, landlord friendly laws, relatively affordable prices,  as well as steady population and job growth. 

The longer durations they frequently have make them excellent for steady investments.

If you can stick with your current job or something in the same field it will be easier to get mortgages because they will look for 2 years of steady employment in 1 line of work.

There has been a steady increase of gentrification in the city for many decades, but it has accelerated over the past few years.

Slow and steady wins the race.   

However, you will likely need steady income (proof of employment history), good credit (which is tough if you have not had open credit for several years), a required amount of capital reserve, and money for the down-payment/closing.If you do not have these then you will need to seek more creative ways like what @Peter Fennig mentioned.Also keep in mind this is a life changing investment that will take a lot of time and sacrifice so make sure you are 100% committed before moving forward at such a young age.

  $1m is a lot if you have a nice steady monthly passive income

They have a steady rental demand due to the presence of universities and healthcare centers.2.

The idea comes across more simple, is more traditional, usually less renovation or moving parts happening, monthly steady income (if you do it right). 

In other words, I was kind of thinking I'd be okay having half of a duplex rent LTR (even if it could earn more $ potentially as STR) so that the LTR rent would be like a stable foundation and would reduce the amount of daily involvement I would have to have.Your situation sounds interesting too, which if I understand, is have it LTR during off season for steady income and then switch to maximize peak STR prospects.