I learned programming at 12 years old. I think its funny that people think you need a engineering degree. It does help to get a higher paycheck though.
I honestly don't know how people can sit through so many classes that are nearly a complete waste of time. Potentially wasting up to four years of life. I tried, was really motivated in the beginning despite it, then slowly burnt out on classes I absolutely didn't need. I left for a job even though I only need a handful more classes.
Also, because I know it coming, not wanting to waste four years of life absolutely does not imply that anyone lacks "grit." I could refer to a dozen current and former coworkers who I am certain will say I don't lack it. Give me an interesting and hard problem to solve and I'll be on it until it is solved. If you don't have one then I don't want to work for you anyway.
My friends who also learned programing at young age, and later got a engineer degree, say they didn't become better at programming, but it sure helped to get a job.
