If you really want to get into this profession....

Get that mundane job helping mindless users find the start menu while in high school (Summer Vacation). Get as much experience as you can while you're in school. Also, when in college don't stay at any job for too long. You will either burn out or stop learning new technology. Consulting is usually a good bet for first jobs - great exposure to different technologies. Always remember, what you are taught in the book is NOT how it works in the real world.

Don't spend too much on a degree. A Masters from the University of Phoenix pays as much as a Masters from Michigan State