Do I really need to get a graphic design degree?

Many high school students that are interested in a graphic design career wonder if it is really necessary to attend a school and get a degree or certificate in graphic design. Do I really need one if I’m really artistic to begin with? They can be great at sketching, painting, and so on. Others might have some good experience working with software such as Photoshop, Illustrator, Flash, and so on. They think that since they understand software, and have gone through the tutorials, that they can do this graphic design thing. You might have a chance if you can piece some of these things together, and the employer isn’t at all picky. You might be able to fluke it.
But graphic design is not just about creativity and / or software. Graphic design is about visual problem solving, and meeting the needs of the client. It’s not about making something look cool, but rather to sell a product or an idea visually in a captivating way. A good graphic design school or program will mold and shape you so you can do just that.