I have no experiences with real estate investing or work in a field relate to real estate so I'm hoping I can get advise from people with more knowledge.

They are tap-dancing in a mine field and yet don't even know it! 

Most PM’s cannot afford to have techs in the field doing work for free.

The legal field has become very specialized. 

A solid job in the medical field may help Worse case, find a cosigner for first 2 years and go from there.

I will have work placement jobs related to my field of study.

The driving factors seem to always be- bloated residential prices in every major city (hard to buy)- uncertainty about office space and other commercial options (not sure if buying is smart)Assets we've seen considered DSTsRaw land (ranchland and solar fields)Mineral rightspassive TIC interests, usually with NN or NNN long-term leases and big-name tenants (CVS, 7-Eleven, Dollar General, etc)cooler residential markets, such as in Indiana, Missouri, and ArkansasKeep in mind that if you exchange out of CA and into a different state, the California Franchise Tax Board will require that you file CFTB Form 3840 on an annual basis reporting as to the status of the proceeds you used in the 1031 exchange. 

Sell the property to someone willing to pay-up and keep it in the same condition (maybe the city needs soccer fields or a great new park?)

I think there is no right and wrong answer on how to approach and develop in this field, you need to choose something that fits you, fits your budget and goals, how you work and what kind of environment you need to develop as an investor.

It says you are from Atlanta, I think you have great opportunities in your own backyard, why would you give up the home field advantage and compete with local investors here?