MarcS08

Many, many valuable posts in this thread. I agree that your original plan was completely unrealistic. Your new plan seems better but don't allow yourself to be become so determined to follow that plan that you miss out on other opportunities that may arise. I am in the midst of a 4-year degree at Eastern Kentucky University in Aerospace management with a professional flight minor. I ignored everyone telling me to get a degree in something different. While I don't by any means regret the decisions I have made, I do wish that I had considered that option more thoroughly.
If you have any school remaining, work extremely hard for good grades. Take the ACT multiple time to try to achieve a good score
My next suggestion for you is APPLY FOR SCHOLARSHIP! There are a plethora of institutions, organizations, etc out there that are willing to give you money in exchange for a decent 500 word essay. Yes, some are very competitive, but some, very few people apply for. I did well in high school and fairly well on the ACT and I was offered a full ride minus books and flight fees to EKU, plus many other one time scholarships. I will end up having a 4 year degree, and all my ratings and be about 15k in debt.
This path has worked out well for me. I am 21 years old, just started my senior year, I have CFI and CFII and will be getting MEI fairly soon, I have 500+ TT with close to a year of instructing left to go as I finish school. The best part, I get paid to do a job I love while finishing school.
Good luck with your flying. Fly safe and don't burn any bridges