Newbie seeking advice: Passed my Intuit Certification, looking for part-time firm experience. Realistic next steps?

Hi everyone,

I recently began researching bookkeeping looking to build a part-time stream of income, but the more I've read about amateurs leaving client books a mess, the more determined I became to do this the right way. I want to be a great bookkeeper, not a liability.

My Background & Education:

• No formal accounting degree, but I am a driven self-teacher.
• Watched the entire Accounting Stuff "Accounting Basics" playlist to understand debits/credits and core financial statements before starting the Intuit Bookkeeping Certification program.
• Completed the 30-hour Intuit Bookkeeping Certification and passed the exam this weekend (on my second attempt!).
• Plan to complete QBO Certified ProAdvisor Levels 1 & 2 next.

My Ultimate Goal:

Eventually, I want to pick up my own local small business clients and run a high-quality, part-time freelance business. (Maybe even full-time if this really takes off)

My Current Dilemma & Next Steps:

I know I am not ready to take on solo clients without real-world experience. I want mentorship and training first. My plan is to apply to bookkeeping firms, but I have a few strict constraints:

1. I have a separate, unrelated full-time job.
2. I need part-time, flexible, remote hours (evenings/weekends).

My Questions for the Community:

1. Is it realistic to find a firm willing to mentor/train me under these part-time, remote constraints?
2. If firms aren't a viable option for nights/weekends, what alternative paths do you recommend for gaining supervised experience?
3. For those who started bookkeeping around a full-time job, how did you bridge the experience gap safely?

I appreciate any advice, reality checks, or constructive feedback on my plan. Thank you!