A side question is how can these courses ever hope to replace university level training? - https://www.edx.org/ Some top tier univs there offering courses and degrees.
If you have a diagnosed medical condition, FMLA is an option. Depending on which state you are in, you will be able to go on short term disability and not go broke. Talk to your health care provider and your FMLA provider.
One previous company had a system where one can reward someone who assists you, in cash. It shows up on their w2, post tax and in performance reviews. The amount you can reward depends on your level.
AFAIK, That's not accurate. You will fall into insider trading irrespective of your share allocation. SEC may not come after you, but that doesn't make it legal.
No point in locking your CC. Ask for new credit cards. Also, add a security question or key to allow customer service to access your account (different from online one)
Not a lawyer: Yes, as long as there is an employer-employee relationship. Meaning, someone in your company should have the power to fire you, usually a Board of Directors.