self-made

from WordNet (r) 3.0 (2006)

self-made
    adj 1: having achieved success or recognition by your own
           efforts; "a self-made millionaire"

from The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48

Self-made \Self"-made`\, a.
   Made by one's self.
   [1913 Webster]

   {Self-made man}, a man who has risen from poverty or
      obscurity by means of his own talents or energies.
      [1913 Webster]