[brianlash]

There's a lot of truth here. I had to begin my schooling at a branch campus because I wasn't accepted at my first choice. But it lit a fire under my butt. I worked hard, took summer courses at a community college, and ultimately transferred up to my first choice (and finished a year early, no less).

Today I regret rushing (that's a different conversation) but my point is that it's fully possible to make a change late in the game. And if you're 17 it isn't late at all.

What I'm saying is don't stress so much. There are a surprising number of opportunities for those who are willing to take the transfer route to a degree. But you've got to do it one step at a time, so (if you're sure it's what you want) get your GED and go from there.