That is a brilliant attitude to have, good on you and i wish half of my students were as sensible. If i may offer one small suggestion, don't focus on character modeling as your first mastery. go from something like environment modeling instead, rocks, trees, buildings, landscapes etc.
The skills you will learn in environment will translate well to character design and are MUCH more sort after in the industry (if that is your objective).
If you need any help with your 3D stuff, let me know.