First, let me announce how excited I am! I saw a class I'd like to take (it's an online class) for Web Graphics and Animation, but it said you had to take Art With Computers or Intro to Computers (or whatever the class is called), or get permission from the professor. I emailed the professor, explaining I already know how to use a computer and an online course in web graphics would work great for me, and he gave me permission to sign up! I have to drive to the college to register in person, since the online registration tells me I haven't taken the prerequisites, but I'm okay with that. I'll probably pop into the bookstore up there and get my favorite Funky Monkey drink (it's chocolate and banana)!

Now, H3rmit, back to your question. I just ordered a book on C++ for beginners. I'm a little nervous about it, because I know it can be hard to learn, but since I'm not doing the computer games classes, I thought I'd try to learn a language that is often used in creating games. Java is another popular one, but I decided to go for the one used most (according to my reading). My boyfriend knows and works with C++, so I have an advantage in that he might be able to help me.

I think learning on my own (computer stuff in general) is easier, less pressure and no one hanging over your shoulder, watching, but I've heard some companies won't hire you if you don't have a degree. Still, I figure I'm going to see what I can do. If I do get good at it--really good--I can't see why a company would pass up hiring me, just because I don't have a piece of paper. And if they do, maybe I'll start my own company (oh, I'm going to need more classes for that! ) and be a rich CEO!

I've also ordered a book specifically on game coding. It gets good ratings on Amazon, so I figured I'd get it. It's got a lot of chapters, so it's going to be heavy reading, but I'm going to try!