Getting a GD Career: Getting Started

I know there's plenty of people curious about getting a job as a game designer. It's mighty elusive but it's not impossible.  This series of yammerings is based on my experience getting a design job, among other things.

Education:
At the very least, finish high school by either graduating or getting a GED. A 4 year degree of any discipline is also recommended.  Yes, any major.

Game Design is a field that really requires one be well rounded, a quick learner and logical thinker.  Going through a Bachelors that makes you take classes in subjects you don't like and such goes a long way to prove you're capable of learning and you've got your act together. 
Getting a degree in art or computer science could get you a job as an artist or programmer, which will give you valuable industry experience, allowing you to move horizontally into design if you so desire.

As far as recommending specific schools to attend, I have no such recommendations.  If you want to save a buck, do a year in a community college then transfer into a 4 year.  Junior/community colleges may have professors more interested in teaching than researching, which is an additional benefit to students as well as the lower cost.  Do some research and be sure visit whatever school interests you. 

Next up: The Portfolio