The clone idea that is been suggested is a very good one. I was not set up for this when I started, though I am now. that can trim significant "start-up" time.
I choose the Top44 strain because I was the perfect picture of impatient. I want my bud now....hahahahahaha....well the reality is it still takes a shitload of time, and being impatient sucks, at least I'm not a fan....I have one Top44 growing right now. I have veged it for 20 days, and it have been in flower only one day. I attached a photo from yesterday. from those that have had more experience than me, I am left to believe that this plant could turn into a rather large one by the end of flowering....some have said double, other triple....the size (its currently 8" tall and 20" across - its in a 5 gal pot). Top44 may not necessarily produce some of the "exotic" bud that you see on here, but I am hoping it will be decent. In some ways, I don't really care, anything that I have grown and cured properly will be decent.....how can it be anything else, I grew it, and with that comes a great sense of accomplishment. and after a year without a puff....I coyuld prolly get high off of second hand smoke!
BTW - the 44 means that is only requires 44 days to finish in flowering, after germinating, sprouting and vegeing. BigBud is another one that I have started - I have three of those that are also doing well - though certainly less advanced that the Top44. These are some of the more "commercial" strains, genetically designed to produce big yeilds in short periods of time. the true
Connoisseur , of which I hope to graduate to one day may think these are cash crop wonders...and maybe they even are, but for us noobs, its an opportunity to take something simple and proven and hone our skills. but the Connoisseur is something that has anm apeal once you start learning about Hazes, Cheeses, and other varietals that have some very cool names like Blue Moonshine, Roadtrip, Raft, Warlock Trainwreck, Alaskan Thunderfuck, Wille Nelson, Black Jack etc. and for obvious reasons....I have to try SEX from THC Laboratories! hahahahahaha.
Another thought is that the drying curing might be an option...their are quick dry and cure methods. I am totally not familiar with them so you'll have to search them out. Again any so called short cut there, generally has a negative influence over final quality. In the case of curing, most people seem to put them into sealable glass jars.....well, I'm thinking that is something you might be able to take with you? and therefore that is not time getting to where ur going.
As a total aside, and I completely realize and acknowledge that school is not for everyone, but kudos on you chasing your interests. There are those that do not like or want the life/things that an education brings, but if you do like/want that and you follow through by pursuing your passion, you will be handsomely rewarded.
Use your word wisely, don't assume anything, don't take anything personal, and ALWAYS do your best. Best of luck on both fronts! and keep us updated in you can!