Computer nerds..im seeking your help...ASAP!!?

Okay, I have a history paper that is due tomorrow. I got side tracked with the whole Superbowl..and lost track of time. So, i emailed the doent that i had started to my school account. I logged on to it, and downloaded the file to my computer. When i went into word to finish it, it was was like all symbols and letters that i couldn't read. i tried to change the font..but it wouldn't work. it was still the weird symbols. How do i change this??!!? I have to get this finished TONIGHT!! HELP!!!