Having started from somewhat modest beginnings and working my way up to be involved with the production of animated feature films, I understand the journey of the dreamer.  I know first hand the hardships of learning the art of animation, the technical aspects of many of the computer programs, and the pain of paying for all that education.  In my opinion, schools have gotten ridiculously expensive to the point of burdening the future creatives with undo financial stress.  You should be able to pursue your dream without paying for it for 10, 20, or more years.  It is with that in mind that I want to share some of what I've picked up over the years.  I hope the next generation can learn more of the art, earlier in their life, and cheaper, so that they can take the artform to much better places and be unburdened in the process.