Acquisitions Vs. Development (Dallas)

I’m at SMU for their masters in real estate program. Upon graduation I am either wanting to go the acquisitions or development route in the DFW market. My only previous work experience was working as a project manager (PM) at a concrete company (one of the largest in Dallas) for 2 years.

From what I understand, acquisitions more than likely will pay more to start and is much more finance and analytics driven: development is lower starting pay with way more upside (assuming you start developing your own projects) and much more about management skills.

Question 1: Is the above an accurate statement? Question 2: Is it realistic to get into development after school? If not, what’s the best route to get their? Question 3: My end goal is to go into business for myself, which role would better prepare me to do so? Which one is their more money in (generally)?

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