Reese,
Well I am a 23 year old male from Seattle. Unfortunately I haven't been
able to get my degree yet, but I've been loving bartending. I did attend an
academy to start. It is a debate as to whether attending a school or working
your way up through the resturaunt heirarchy is better. I must admit if you
are a little pressed for time (which it seems you might be), then school might
be a better choice. You may have to barback for a short time, but at least
your one step below a bartender rather than starting as a host or something of
that nature. I had to barback for 2 months before full time bartending. It
is worth it though (if you can handle it) to learn the in's and out's of your
establishment. Try and find a reputable school in your area. Go to your
local bars and ask them what schools they think are good. Going overseas
would be cool, especially if you went somewhere where an American accent could
make a good impression. Well good luck and let me know what road you decide
to take.
James/Jrock