Need Advice!!!!

[SAGamer]

Hi all. Im looking for some advice, Im a first year student doing a BA in multimedia studies: Computer-Generated Multimedia and from next year also a National Certificate: 3D animation and visual effects.I have always been amazed with game art, 3d modeling and animation. I've been working and learning to use some programs like maya,toomboom,photoshop,corel painter and corel draw I wanted to know should I start on my portfolio now or get a freelance or part-time job within the industry or anything. Since I'm 26 now which is late to be starting with this all I could really use any advice to help me get a leg up an on the right path.