Hey MattTheMan
I agree with both of the other guys about how you should approach modeling, it is how I started and it makes a lot of sense.
Don't think you don't have potential. Maya, and computer graphics isn't exaclty easy. I've been working with Maya for only a couple months, and things are still hard, but bit by bit i'm getting it. So don't give up you can do a lot if you just keep trying.
Good Luck and have fun with Maya!

David