Welcome to RCU. Lots of good smart people here. (Me not being one of them! )
A buddy box is the way to go. Many people have taught themselves to fly, but many have also quit the hobby trying to learn to fly.
It can be quite frustrating when you spend too much time repairing and too much money buying replacement stuff.
If you do try to teach yourself to fly, keep it inexpensive and practice on that sim!
Good luck.
Bob