It does sound quite hard if that’s the mentality you’re approaching it with.

You can do it at home, for sure. I've done some NanoGPT training runs and modified the architecture, it wasn't that hard. Came up with some potential research ideas too. It does take money for GPU rental so for a 17 year old, it's not so easy unless their parents give them a budget. For an adult with income you can do it.

The question is more one of opportunity cost. At 17 you need to start finding your way in the world. It's best to learn skills lots of people need.