Welcome to the forum.
I don't know the details but ....here is my opinion....for what ever it's worth.
Education in this field is good at almost every level but....there is no subsitute for experience !
Find a local service/installation company in your area and with a solid reputation. Tell them you are starting school in august and that you want experience (that statment will possibly get you a job but likely not real high pay) and are willing to work full time through the summer and parttime during school. I suspect they will at least take time to talk to you if not hire you.
Good luck !