why can't i check my email?

okay, so i have a blackberry, and i have my hotmail email hooked up to it. so i sent myself an email so i can check it on my computer when i get home. i'm home. i go to check my email and it says i dont have my email set up and it asks me to create an all new thing when i try to set it up. i typed in the correct email address and password and i can look at all my contacts but can't get to my email. it is vital i get to it ASAP!!! i'm a nursing student and i have to be in contact with my professors for my patients at all times.. i dont know why its doing this! THANK YOU