Chopin Competition! How to get there?

[alistaircrane4]

What do i need to do to compete? Schooling wise do I need a masters in performance or can I do it while in school because they ask for degrees also how important are the recommendations? It is my dream to simply compete in this competition and I get choked up just watching the performance videos and interviews Im already set to attend college for piano performance albeit community but I am going to transfer later to a conservatory most likely SUNY Purchase. What then? Even if I have the required repertoire what else do I need please help…..