Eggbert

>how practical is it for someone to expect to go from beginner to entry level pro in one year?
It depends on how motivated you are. One can learn quite a bit in a year, and it is possible to enter the field, but not if you study once in a while and practice occasionally. Keep in mind that your rivals for that job will be college graduates who were stuffed with information for at least four years, hobbyists with several years of intense study and practice, and experienced professionals. To get the job you need to be very good, have uncommon potential, or bring some other redeeming attribute to the table that makes you the most desirable candidate.