As the father of a three year old and an English BA holder in his second year professionally programming, I can relate.
As someone who inputs on hiring, I would recommend that you become a serial project completer rather than just a starter. I don't get the impression of follow through, which is unfortunately what the unfinished degree also communicates. The only way to combat this is to choose smaller chunks (don't start with solving energy) and see them through to decisive conclusion.
What is something you can build in six months that does not require government funding and also teaches you something for that bigger project?