[bdcravens]

You really aren't qualified as a technology professional until you've learned to solve problems. I'm not convinced that a structured curriculum prepares you for that in the same way that structured budgets or ROI driven development does. I'd say that someone who eventually wants to be engaged should work in a typical junior role for 2-5 years, so you'll be able to provide value.

However, if all you want is an unpaid internship, there's probably plenty of opportunities.