Getting starting in REI with student loan debt

[Ben Hauck]

Hi BP -

Just starting out and trying to learn as much as possible about real estate investing (books, podcasts, forums, etc.). I am in my mid 20's and have a steady income living in SoCal but have a considerable amount of student loans left to pay back.

Did anyone else start in a similar situation? What was your strategy? What was something you didn't do you wish you did? Advice on reading material specific to this? 

Any insight is much appreciated!