How do I get a job as a computer programmer?

Hello, I’m a young highschool student, currently taking a few college classes on the side trying to further my knowledge of computers. About 2 years ago I developed an interest in computers and how they worked. Eventually I found my way into programming, and I’ve loved it ever since.

I would love to become a game programmer in the future, but the more and more about I read about it, it makes me second guess myself. I read a page the other day on how to get a job as a game developer, and it mentioned that before i can even have a CHANCE in the industry, i’d have to take several college courses such as:

assembly level programming,
computer architecture,
computer graphics,
algorithms,
communication networks,
human factors,
mathematics,
and physics (for games, etc..)

Is this all true?? I mean that sounds like a LOT just to develop video games. I really have a passion for this, and I’ll do it if i have to, but come on! I’ve found several other pages that mention similar suggestions. I know a few programmers myself, but none of them are top-notch C++ gurus or java wizzes, so what’s so special about them?

Alright, sorry about my rant, but im VERY confused about how I’m gonna get my foot in the door and land a good job in my field of interest. Not just game programming, even software development or database programming. So here’s my question. As a young kid, who’s really got his hopes up on programming (Yes, i DO have experience programming! + what I’ve taken from a few classes), what do i need to do right now to get myself that much closer to what i want?