One may have nothing to do with the other. They could just be honestly curious. What did you tell them?
I've stated this but in regards to posters here having this unrealistic expectations when it comes to hobbies. You might not find that woman. I love comic book stuff. My wife goes to "some" comic book movies not all. She doesn't read comic books or watch the tv shows. She isn't interested that there's a new statue, figure coming out. She's supportive but she's not into it.
While sports is more of a crossover with more women being interested than say comic books, again making it a "must have" item on your search list could really limit your selections.
You also have to be aware of people's schedule might not be flexible with yours. So I'm sure you work weekends and nights at times? You also have school. A lot of people don't and have 8-5 jobs or go to school at night. So it's harder for some people to squeeze in times to get together. And they do have to put more effort into a girlfriend than a friend.
Well, good for you moving out and going back to school. It might not be a quick change, but baby steps.