Jason, I just finished nursing school last month. I'm in my thirties and used to work in computers (programming). I'll give you the same advice I gave my younger sister, which is what I would have done right out of high school if I had it to do over again: Get a technical/2-year type degree that will allow you to work at a liveable (sp?) wage. By the time you're 20 or 21, you can have your own place, have health insurance, be totally self-sufficient, and young enough to continue in whatever field you choose. It's very difficult to know what you want to do with the rest of your life when you're still in high school, especially since you don't have a lot of real-world experience. I'm not trying to imply anything negative about being young, it's just that as I've gotten older, I continue to learn about different careers that I never even realized existed. In the end, you have to follow your heart with what you want to do. I struggled financially throughout my twenties, and I know first-hand how difficult it can be to make changes in your life or follow your dreams without money. Good luck, no matter what you choose to do. By the way, my sister did take my advice. She's a dental hygienist and makes about $30/hr. She's seven years younger than I am and making more money than me. Prof_student