3d career

[gahn]

lo peeps

I work in IT, as some of you probably know this area is pretty dead at the mo. I was made redundant last June and have been temping ever since.

I've been thinking about a change in direction and moving into 3d modeling. I know that i've only just started out, but with out wanting to sound big headed the general consensus (from here and other forums) seems to be that i protentially have a future in 3D. What i would like to know is what are the odds of me being able to get a job in this field with out a Degree in it?
I have been on a 1 day MAX course (with BlueFX) and have another one lined up, but that is about all the training i am going to be able to get as i can't afford anymore (luckily I got the 2 days training from some work i done for a game demo so it didn't cost me).
I don't have a problem with teaching myself as the online community for 3D is huge and there's lots of helpful peeps. But all I really have going for me at the mo is bags of enthusiasm (sp?), an xwing and some board game peices. (i gave up quake 3 as it was taking up too much of my time, i now spend more time modeling )
What are the odds of getting like an apprenticeship/sponser for 3d?
If need be i'll carry on in IT for a few years to do 3d in my spare time till i get a decent portfolio built up, but it would be nice if i could make the change to 3d now, i am 27 after all.
I'm going to join a few MODing comunities to see if i can get some experience from that too.
I live in the South east of england if that makes any difference.

bit long winded i know, but any comments/tips would be appretiated.

TIA

gahn

(PS i've heard that most graphic artist have problems with spelling etc, as you can see i already have this covered )