I started playing around in what was then still called Fruity Loops when I was about 15, now I'm 23 and I just completed a masters in playing about with Logic. I am now starting to get a paid a reasonable amount of money for what freelance sound design and composition I can get. The creative director of the company who are providing most of the sound work I'm doing could open a lot of doors for me when the time is right. This company also happens to be the web agency my brother and old housemate work for. It's who you know...

Essentially, I've had no plan and just done what seems right and/or is available to me at the time. However, I do have the good fortune of having immensely patient, hard working, and financially comfortable parents who have been willing to support me and put up with my bullshit. Don't get me wrong, I'm by no means a spoilt rich kind and ive helped earn my way, but they are the main reason I've been able to go about my life the way I have.

I mean, I'm living back home now after my postgraduate, working part time at my dad's company coordinating software projects whilst i build up my sound portfolio with freelance work. I still consider the decisions you're trying to make now. Who knows if music will even be my main income in a few years time. There's every chance it won't be. I might not even be doing it all. Who knows? But I don't regret the path I've taken and I am enjoying my life.

I know this isn't really advice. It's more just a perspective from someone who was in similar shoes to you are now and in some respects still is.