You guys are right about the hands-on, which is why I'm a plant n00b even after 2 semesters!!
I'm trying to get experience, but the best way to do that would be to find work in horticulture, but I can't afford to quit my job yet. D'oh. The next best thing is to grow plants in my spare time, which I'm doing, but it's very hit and miss right now.
As far as registration on DV goes, After about the 3rd missed deadline I realized it probably won't happen. If it does, fine, but I'm not holding my breath. I just think that honesty would have been better than all the broken promises. Just say "it's too much work and we've got more important things to do" and I would at least respect them for being upfront with their slothful ways.