[dfritsch]

I would second a lot of what is said in here and add that I think being a part of a network of similar minded people (i.e. local programming/hacker club) can be just as beneficial as having one official mentor. It may not get you from point A to point B as quickly, but if you aren't really sure where you want to go at this moment, being part of a club can be just as useful as a mentor.