Wanna-be - Trying to get my 'foot in the door' so to speak

I'm new to these forums, though I have been reading them for a few days now, and I have to say I've learned some rather shocking things, mostly about companies (Like Swift) that I -thought- were good.

I'm not a trucker yet, but I've wanted to be for I would say.. 7 or more years now (Turn 30 in may, so at my age that's a fairly long time ). I managed to get in with Swift at one point, but was forced to leave before the first week of school was over due to medical issues. They gave me no trouble with this, even saying I was welcome back and would not have to re-pay the 'orientation fee' if I returned within a week, and as far as I know, nothing bad has gone on my record, nor do I owe them any money.

Unfortunately, it took nearly four years to get those medical issues squared away, and by that time I couldn't afford the non-refundable 'orientation fee', or whatever it is they're calling it now, food while staying in the hotel, or the cost for the license itself. I live near Dallas, TX as well now, rather than near SLC, UT, like I did back then, and I'm not only having problems finding a way to get INTO the industry, I'm also worrying about what companies I should flat out avoid. - This site is useful, but it does stir up some paranoia.

I have a perfectly clean driving record and no criminal history of any kind, and although my job history isn't the greatest, nor is my credit history, Swift and several others back when I first made it into school didn't seem to care one bit, so, my question to you guys is... What on earth do I do from here? How do I go about this?

I'm stuck at a minimum wage (gas station) job that I hate beyond all description, and all I really want is to truck.. I was doing well in trucking school, and it felt right, something I'm sure many of you can understand.

All I want is schooling (Which I can't just.. flat out pay for, living paycheck to paycheck, or I'd already be going), and a company that will allow my Fiance (A non trucker) to ride with me after OTR is completed, even if I have to take a bit out of my paycheck for insurance for him or whatever else. Animals being allowed would be nice as well, which Swift allowed, but on that, I'm not sure on how many companies will allow it, with or without a fee attached.

This post would be longer and more in depth, but I have to get ready for work.. blah, and don't have enough time to type all the things that are on my mind. I would just like some advice, a little guidance, because I'm well beyond 'lost in the woods' here.

Thanks, to anyone who can even start steering me in the right direction.