A good philosophy
You can become a ham and it REALLY isn't to daunting a challenge.
There are various levels of being a Ham.
You will be working to become a Technician License Holder.
It is mostly about obtaining knowledge to operate correctly and it is mostly NOT about being an electronics technician.
So, what to do.
You need access to the internet on a regular basis to use the program.
First, go to here:
http://www.hamradiolicenseexam.com/
Pay these people their $20 (it is on sale right now, til 9/30)
Do NOT talk to anyone about what you are doing. The only input you need at this point is included in the online program. If you tell someone something about what you are doing they will feel obligated to give you all kinds of info that you do NOT need at this time.
Practice, Practice, Practice as much as you can either at home or the library or wherever. Do it until you can pass all of the tests with flying colors.
Depending, this may take 4-5 days or 4-5 weeks depending on your available time to spend on the project.
When you have aced all the tests, find out from someone, preferably someone you do not know, and find out where you have to go to take a scheduled test at a testing session administered by a VE at an amateur radio club event.
Attend the test session by yourself. At this point you do not need the involvement of anyone or their presence at the testing session. You will DO this without assistance from any one.
After taking the test, wait for your personal results. You will most likely pass with no problem.
In the event that it wasn't your day so far, ask the VE if it is possible for you to take the test over again. If time permits, and it usually does, take the test again and again if necessary. Let THEM tell you that time has run out in the event that it does. It is no big deal if you do not make it the first time. Many, many do not make it because they DID NOT SPEND THE TIME ON THE PROJECT.
When you pass, keep it to yourself even though you are excited and wait for your license in the mail. Then, you can frame it and hang it on the wall for others to notice. Won't that be a day to remember, eh?
Sometimes, it just doesn't get any better than that................