I think option one is a better option because it avoid debts and give you time to explore. 23 is very young and so much can change in 2-5 years.

To be a consultant you need a great deal of experience and expertise. You can try Real Estate if you want. Typically all you have to do is take 3 classes and pass one state license test.

At 23 I graduated with $10k in student loans and I was so debt adverse I didn’t wanted to work for free doing practicum a for 2 years in an MSW Program or add $20k more in debt. I got a full time job that would allowed me to save and qualify for a home loan in 2 years. Then I bought my first property at 25.

I am 28 and I think I made the best choice to forgoe a Masters in my field of social work. I make $35/hour in a role that tops out at $46/hour and I didn’t need a Masters. I am a hiring manager and I interviewed Master Degree holders all the time.I might still get one in the future and pay cash for it so I’ll be a better candidate for executive program manager roles that pay $45-$60/hour.