p.s.

thanks for all your input.
i didn't know about the geek squad or any of my other options!

turns out, it's a good thing having a dad who's head of IT for a major university.
(and swallowing pride enough to ask someone for help... gulp)
i needed a new hard drive as mine was fried, but he was able to salvage most of my stuff.
now i can breathe again.

i'm re-connected.
and still graduating.
whew.