Same questions here (EE degree)..
You're at a critcal point now. You really need to protect what you have. I know a handful of engineers that were screwed out of the $ side of what they did. Assume you have engineering notes, diagrams, signed (dated) and a witness to your signature. You'll need a patent attorney. Chances are you don't have the $ for that. So you'll need someone to back you without screwing you. Be careful on the business end.
Best of luck! I knew it paid to read GFY threads!