I've been working a part time job at an Insurance office, and seemingly excel there. My supervisor is the actual Agent (who owns the specific agency).

Now, lets be honest: I didn't exactly have this in mind for my permanent career. I went into this with the intention of not only earning some much needed cash, but to gain the social experience working with clients. I felt that this would look good on my resume, and give me invaluable skills that I could use toward future careers (especially university teaching, which is what I want to do).  

My supervisor has been walking me through the process of understanding policies, and how to conduct business with each client. It is educational to learn all that is involved in being an insurance agent. I am getting plenty of advice from her, as a mentor.

Right now, seeing as I haven't found any promising work opportunities, I am considering this business opportunity. The pay sounds great, and its an opportunity to be in business for yourself. Also, it would be great flexibility seeing as I will be studying for graduate school. Honestly, I am very tempted by all of these things, especially the money.

My fear is that I am not as great at selling. I had an experience where I attempted to sell Mary Kay products, and it didn't work out. I couldn't manage to build a customer base. Unlike cosmetics, insurance IS a necessity. I guess what I am saying is that I don't want to enter another scam. I've been sort of scarred by the Mary Kay experience. But somehow, the insurance idea seems more realistic than MK.

So, would it be foolish of me to consider this opportunity even though it is far from my educational background? Any thoughts would be appreciated.

Work experience leading to saving money leading to what you want to do?  I don't know.  It depends on you.

Great. No it would not be foolish. We have a saying in french that goes a bit like this: One who is yours is worth more then two you might get. So unless you have been hired elsewhere already, dont quit your actual job, especially if your boss seem cool and you seem good a it.