Yes, MOST film directors went to school. Most broadcasters went to school too, writers, etc.

Yes, some of it IS natural talent.. but that's the same with any classical musician, and they all go to grad school and beyond.

Some of it is learning. And heck, having an MBA period from NYU would help me.

Some of it is contacts.. I expect to discover more contacts in New York City then little Cincinnati. Though I have made a lot here and I love this city, its not crawling with film people.