I am trying to think where I was at your age. 29. Just on the cusp I think between starting flying and getting paid versus cleaning aircraft for pocketmoney!
Everyone thinks things are so much different and so much harder these days? I think not. It was never easy and a lot of work and time and money had to be thrown at this at any time.
You are now in the right place. I was a very good hangar rat. That did'nt mean I had to stay a hangar rat for ever and I didn't. Right now times are hard but hang in there, GENTLY make your mark and you'll be surprised what can happen!