[bikamonki]

Pragmatism. I tried twice to get an engineering degree (electronics and CS) but I am too lazy when it comes to studying boring stuff on a structured manner. On my third attempt (age 23) I decided to water-down my aspirations and simply get a BS with a CS and Math focus. I had been programming for fun since age 15 (an Atari 130xe with a Basic cartridge) so it was natural to do it for money. Naturally, like any real professional, I started learning everything that I know AFTER graduation, using my clients as ginea pigs. I never wanted a job per se so the degree was more of a social fulfillment rather than a pre-requisite to start a professional career. I turned down job offers and opened shop right after graduation. I am 40 now, busy and happy :)