I agree with all the above. I have 2 college degrees and numerous professional training courses/certificates to my credit, but still occassionally run into roadblocks.
If there is one thing I can impress upon you, its this: Having a college degree today is like having a high school diploma 20 years ago---it's not only necessary, but EXPECTED.
Plus, if aviation does'nt work out, you can use it to fall back on.