So the goal is for me to write my first feature by next year. I am hoping to get it finished by next year around this time so I can enter it into a contest.

I have been doing my research, and next semester I take a script class that should help me out some more. I also hope you all can help me with technical things and stuff along the way. I'd appreciate it.

Thanks

Good luck, superdrew.

Be sure to search through the 'screenwriting class' section of the forum. There's a ton of useful information in there.

Check out this thread in particular:

http://www.simplyscripts.net/cgi-bin/Blah/Blah.pl?b-screenwrite/m-1132968707/s-0/

Yes good luck.  Would be more than happy to help you out.

That post Martin referenced certainly covers all the key questions and more.
Don't be overwhelmed by it.

If you can, check to see if your college or local library carries this book:

<<http://www.amazon.com/Writers-Guide-Writing-Your-Screenplay/dp/0871161915/sr=8-1/qid=1163789323/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1/104-8050741-5624758?ie=UTF8&s=books>>
ISBN: 0871161915

I really like the strategy proposed for tackling a feature-length work.

-Bob

Purchase your copy of Screenwriting For Dummies. Works wonders.