I hate to say that I fall into the category of young guy who wants to be a DP.
I started working when I was 19 as a PA while going to college (not film school) two days a week. I have yet to finish my degree.
My eagerness led me to intern at a camera rental house (while PAing on the side) and eventually found my way into working as a Loader.
I now work as a 2nd AC, though being 23 I find myself to be low man on the totem pole. I pride myself on how I've been able to work my way up with a good mixture of know-how, eagerness to learn, and a positive attitude. I also shoot low or no-budget projects in my off time (which is frequent). Thankfully my work as a 2nd affords me to shoot lots of projects, and stills upon stills (film).
I have had to prove myself in the past as not another "young hot-shot wannabe" but rather someone who has a respect for the system. And while my dream is to be a cinematographer, whether I get there miraculously by way of my work falling into the right hands, or by working up the ladder as I have started to do, I feel like my dedication to learning the craft in all facets will help to prove my belonging in the position.