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I was in college for nursing for 3 years which I abandoned to do early education for a year (which I stopped because the school I attended was dishonest about how long it would take. They went from 2 years starting with my first, and then tried to say 3 more on top of that. NO way.)

I dropped out entirely to pursue alternative education because I was tired of school and had something to prove. I really enjoy learning more about the actual skillset over spending thousands of dollars on required classes that are often outdated in terms of information and taught by someone who hasn't been directly involved with the topic outside of teaching it for 20 years.

It was a scary plunge to make and I was nervous that I'd made the wrong choice for a while, but I've recently found someone who is willing to hire me once I've gotten myself up to speed and feel confident enough to actually provide value.

From what I've read, while some companies are still in the past and want you to have a degree, there are an increasing amount who have realized that coding is far less about what you've learned and far more about what you can actually do.

Set up a plan before you commit to anything. I've made a list of local businesses with poorly made websites that I'm going to design for practice. I don't plan to charge them unless they insist, but it's a good way to not only fill your portfolio (which is what matters most) but it will give you experience with designing from the ground up. Plus, you get to help local businesses improve their marketing and exposure!

But like everyone said, it's a very personal choice that may not be for everyone. There are plenty of resources in addition to Treehouse (which I won't mention since I'm sure that they wouldn't appreciate that) which I've heard wonderful things about. After web design I'd like to pursue mobile development and I've already got my eye on a few different courses from other providers. I would highly recommend that you do a TON of research before taking the plunge on finding work without a degree.

There's other factors which may influence your choice too. Would going back to school be an option if alternative routes don't work out? In college you have scheduled times where you MUST go to class which is a motivator that isn't available through other methods. Will you be able to force yourself to study with your free time? Do you have a quiet area where you can work uninterrupted? Will you rely solely on Treehouse or do you have other sources of information that you will pursue?

Again, this method worked out really well for me. I struggled with getting myself to sit down after 2 weeks but I really made a point of structuring my day and treating my education like a full time job.

Don't treat the decision lightly and make sure it's for the right reasons. Try to envision every possible outcome, good and bad. If the benefits outweigh the negatives then maybe it's worth a shot. You can even decide to take a semester off, save some money, and give full-time alternative education a try.

I'm getting to the point where I'm just rambling and repeating myself so I'm going to cut myself off now, but whatever you decide I wish you the best of luck. I'm sure you'll find success with either route. Really try to surround yourself with things related to software development in every aspect. Find YouTube channels, books, articles, forums, etc.

You won’t believe this but I’m in the exact position as you were, so how have things gone for you? Were you able to find a job? Are you still in school?