Hello everyone.. I want to start of by saying Yes, I did do a Site search and it didn't answer my questions so now I'll ask you all. (long drawn out question)

I'm basically "computer stupid" coming into the IT field. obviously I know my way around enough to get here and can figure out the difference between a power supply and a video card, but I want to learn everything from the basic basics to Network/system Admin (in due time of course).

I've been in contact with the "educational consultant (recruiter)" at the local (USA - Midwest) New Horizons office and he has suggested an education/career track consisting of: A+ (2006 objectives), Network +, MCSE + Security, CCNA, and Ethical Hacking.

I chose New Horizons primarily because they are in a good location for my daily travels, and I don't see how learning about biology, Othello, and the Anatomy of Man would apply in the technology field of tomorrow....

I've also talked to a couple of people I know who are respected in their area of IT and got conflicting results. Not so much about the organization, but about the path.

(1) Has anyone gone through a complete New Horizons program and if so are you doing what you got trained to do? Is your pay what you expected? and most importantly do you Enjoy your work?

(2) Can anyone offer me some constructive comments about both the positive and negative viewpoints of going through an accelerated course vs long term brick and mortar schooling? Don't you have to have Certs on top of a BS or MS anyway?

(3) There are so many "sites" advertised online that I don't know what to believe.
where are some companies/colleges that some of you have attended that you would recommend for a new guy?

Yes, I'm serious about making this change.. I'm 35 and am kicking myself in the butt for not doing it 15 years ago. I've always been a physical labor guy and now I'm paying the price. time to use the mind for a while.

I thank you all in advance for your comments!