<p>"Besides working full-time at some meaningless entry-level job? I plan to educate myself, using the tons of resources available to me"</p>
<p>Yes, that's what my brilliant college drop-out son is doing: working fulltime at meaningless, temporary jobs -- which is all he seems to be able to get without a college degree.</p>
<p>Believe it or not, that piece of paper counts a lot. Educating yourself may be intellectually fulfilling, but unless you're Bill Gates (who had the backing of coming from a wealthy family), you're unlikely to be able to educate yourself into meaningful work that will support yourself in the style that you'd like to enjoy.</p>
<p>Incidentally, there are plenty of brilliant college drop-outs. You have lots of bright company, and also will on the boring, low paying jobs that you'll end up getting. </p>
<p>I suggest that you also take a close look at the type of housing and lifestyle that you'll be able to afford on the pay for the jobs that you're likely get offered.</p>