Hi, I am a freelance writer, just out of college and moving to Paris early next month. I want to apply for a long-stay visa, but am having tons of problems. If anyone could answer these questions, I'd really, really appriciate it- thank you!

* can one register and enroll in course for the au pair visa, then drop and be reimbursed upon recieving visa?
* what happens if I travel to another eu country after my over-stay and then try to return?
* what is the worst-case scenario if I overstay and am found out?
*becasue I am doing freelance, my salary will be sporatic, so I do not have the 22,000 euro that they require- any way to side-step this?
*if I overstay, will France be notified of my arrival in the US, and how long do I need to wait before returing?
* any suggestions (as you can tell, I need them!)
I know these are alot of questions- thanks so much for your time!