Bruce, you knew from an early age exactly what you wanted to do in life--and you did it. Most high school kids don't really know yet and, as Druxy pointed out, may not be good judges. You didn't need academics to follow your dream, but for many careers they are essential. Going to lots of movies and plays, as you did, was an education of sorts for your career, which is quite different from hanging out at the mall or being idle. I'm a big believer in education, but I do feel it needs to be geared to the student. I'm very grateful for my own education.