Then with your parent "I just want to know the opinion of those more experienced than me. Is it worth it to stay in college? Or is that parchment more worthwhile than continuing to pursue programming as the passion it is for me"

With your current situation then, perhaps some self study of the "why" of what your goals / future endeavors could bring would be beneficial. Meaning, take a meditative walk, hike, "alone" time with shutting down all electronic mediums (NO distractions) and, a freewrite into a blank pad of paper on your passions, goals (separate columns), link them up (passions to goals to competencies), and pursue / iterate until fruition. Without further information, I'm not sure what I can offer, but I hope it is helpful :)

Prometheus Rising http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1561840564/ref=as_li_ss_tl?...

Is a great mind-hacking novel to expand your views of reality, what many would identify with "aha" moments, and, many would cite (in sections) "hokey." But, expanding your creative juices (even if that is staring at a sunset whilst calming your mind to any and all distractions, quiet your mind) and, see what comes :)

Cheers!

Edit: with regards to networking outside of college, do not discount the possibility of the up and comings / future generation of movers Within college, that could be of future value (whether you add to their experiences (mentor), or they, "ping" something to lead to a slight "aha" moment).