[carreraboyracer]

My opinion is if you learn basic Buddhism, you are already so far ahead of the loop that you are very fortunate. To truly understand basic Buddhism after studying its concepts can lead to enlightenment all on its own. Because the core teachings of Buddhism are the same in all Buddhist traditions. All of the other practices which vary from sect to sect are just different way in which to understand the basic teachings of Buddhism.

So, once you have a firm grasp on what is the same in all forms of Buddhism, picking a school of Buddhism is just a matter of what "flavor" of practice is most effective for you. Ive never picked a particular sect, I employ practices from them all, and I study them all. But that is because I want to be a scholar that writes and lectures/teaches on Buddhism someday.