I didn't want to start a new thread about this since I just saw yours, so if I may I'd like to add a question to this.

In regards to schooling, is a degree, like a Bachelor's, what really counts, or is it experience that counts? I'm in a somewhat similar position that you are Gatekeeper in that I am already in school working towards a degree (though mine is just a general Associates Degree) and am looking to go to a 3d school after this.

The reason I brought this up was because Nem brought up The Rennaissance Center. The education you get there is supposed to be excellent, but you do not get a "real" degree, like a Bachelor's. So is the education (and the demo reel you can get out of it) more important, or is a degree better?

Hope I didn't crap up your thread here. If so please just tell me and I'll start a new thread.