"I’d used computers for years on a personal level and at my jobs, but I’d never had any real IT training. After graduating from college I was stuck in a dead-end job and really had nowhere I wanted to go career-wise. I knew I’d need new training and skills to get a job in a field that had more opportunities. Knowing that I was already good with computers and looking at the myriad of career options in the IT world, becoming certified and entering the IT field made sense.

The best thing about my new IT career is that I know I’ll never be stuck in a job I don’t like. Now that I’m certified, there will always be other, better opportunities out there for me to take advantage of. Since new technologies appear almost daily, I can continue to learn new things and make myself more valuable to potential employers. Plus, I’ll never get bored.

My biggest concern about the program was the cost- it’s a good chunk of change! I already had loans from college and for my car, so I was very wary of taking on even more financial burdens. However, I knew that the training I would receive would help me get better, higher-paying jobs down the road. I considered the tuition costs an investment in myself and my future.

As a new student, you must apply yourself. Do the homework, do the labs, experiment on your own. It’s the only way to learn things in detail. It will be very tough at times, but keep focused on whatever goals you’ve set for yourself- obtaining an MCSE, getting a new job, whatever. Work hard, persevere, and you’ll be fine.

I’m now much more optimistic about my future. I got out of my old, high-stress job and now work in a friendly environment where I can set my own goals, learn new things, and gain more experience. I know that after this job, I can find a new one without a terrible amount of trouble and can expect to make more money. "

James Ketchaver
MCP
PC Support Specialist