My Dad said that after I work for a year (from the ages 18 to 19) that on my 19th birthday he will give me $5000 on top of the money I already made from that year so that I can go to India. He says that he thinks it would be good for me so that I can find myself and go to a more spiritual environment. My plan is to go to the Ashram's and to go to Varanasi, and other cool Temple's and things like that. But, a thought dawned upon me, if I go there and find a Guru that I really like and connect too could I become a Sadhu? I know that might be an odd question for a westerner to ask, but could I? Now, I know it would be a hard life and I may be a sort of an outcast, but Its something I would really do. Spirituality is the greatest thing in my life and living the life of a Sadhu would be very much worth it if it brings me closer to God.
You could live a simple life in India for sometime with that type of money. Its great that you have a dad that supports you in your spiritual search. It's a rare gift.
You can be a white sadhu in India I have seen more then a few.
I believe that krishnakanta has given you the best advice on finding a Guru. Study them ! You have no rush, find someone who lives like a sadhu not someone who sits on a throne and gives orders. Perceived spiritual power can be false and a trick. Remember Ravana had great spiritual power and he was a demon not a sadhu. A pure life, great wisdom and a heart full of love is the marks of a true sadhu.
A good indicator is that religion is not to be bought and sold. Someone should not charge you to be your Guru. It is a relationship of love. It is ok to give money out of love. Not because it's a charge. Many people might want to be your Guru for the money so be careful and wise.
When I asked a white man why he became a Swami. He said because he loved ordering his life around God. If over time you find that it works for you and giving up sex is not a problem or none of the comforts of life. Then I would say become a Sadhu. Only time will tell. I lived in a math for 6 months. A swami told me that if I feel a lot of sexual desire even when there are no women around I should not become a Swami. I figured out I have desires for Sex and comfort so it was not the right choice for me.
Being married with a devotee of a spouse is also a very wonderful path. As long as both people have the same goals in life.
I spent 3 days with an old man in India. His wife just died. He had no dout that she died Jivamukti. I believe him because of the type of man he was. All paths lead to God.
Om punyaham Om punyaham Om punyaham.
May all your activeties yield merit.
I bow to you being so young and looking so deeply at the meaning of life.