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.