Seriously Interested In Real Estate, but what is the market like at the present moment?

I’m from Chicago, IL but is currently in Memphis, TN attending school. My major is Business Administration with a concentration in Real Estate/Finance. This is something I would like to seriously pursue, however the market at the moment from my understanding is not great right now. What are the things I should consider before making this move that is, where to start?? I also would like to eventually branch off and start my own establishment either in the Chicago or Memphis area. Any experienced brokers/agents with great advice would be extremely helpful.

I want to work in Real Estate Finance but how do I get started?

I am a recent graduate from the University of Connecticut, completing a finance degree with a concentration in Real Estate & Urban Economics. I graduated with honors, I did an internship at Prudential Financial, and have references from previous managers, professors and personal friends. I can’t find a job. I have been on a handful of interviews that are begun with the explanation that their is not an open position but they would like to meet me now in case something opens up.

I am running out of time to wait. My apartment lease is up on Monday and I don’t have any family in the area. My friends have offered to help me out for awhile but I would feel terrible having to live off their charity for very long. I started about a month ago to look for bill-paying jobs such as a bartender, or waiter, even a retail job but have been met with resistance. I am running out of option and am not sure what to do. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Cheers,
Greg