20yrs old, going to school for IT, but worried about future. any tips, advice?

Hello friends! First of all, I would just like to say thank you for this wonderful website. It is certainly a wonderful place to come for review and even new learning!

I'm a 20 year old male residing in New York. I'm currently going to a health & tech institute that provides Information Technology courses. I'm going full time and have already completed a Linux course (discussed how to manage a Linux based system, basic commands in the command line for the OS and a Linux based server, etc) and received an A as a final grade. I currently hold a 4.0 GPA in this school. I'm currently taking now two classes (Mac and Network +). In Mac, we're mostly at the moment learning how to troubleshoot the OS at a fairly basic and somewhat advanced level, etc. In Network+, we're learning all the nine yards as you could imagine. For example, I actually have a test today in that class, and here's a basic list of things that will be on the test:

OSI Model
Topologies (star/bus/mesh/ring/etc)
Types of cabling
Data transfer speeds on different types of cabling
RJ45
IEEE-802.3 and 802.11
Ethernet
CSMA/CD
Hubs vs Switches
Physically installing a network (from running cable, patch panels, punch down tool, equipment racks, etc)
Know the length cables can go unassisted
TCP/IP as well as UDP
IP addressing as well as Subnetting
DHCP
Private IP ranges
Routing tables as well as routers
Metric
NAT
Static routing as well as Dynamic routing
Distance Vector
EGP/Autonomous systems
ICMP
IGMP
HTTP/HTTPS
TELENET
E-Mail protocols
FTP
Common ports
DNS
Top level domains
Dynamic DNS
WINS
etc

I've been with computers more than most of my life and am very experienced in Crash **** analysis and debugging for Vista/7 based systems. I decided that I wanted to make computers a bigger part of my life, and ultimately my career. The only problem is, I am not quite sure how the 'real world' in terms of IT and finding jobs works. All I know is, if I graduate, I get three certs paid for by the school granted I pass the exams and then I suppose I go and find a job? I'm sort of foggy on a lot of stuff, so I would appreciate any tips or help.

These are the included courses I am taking/will take:

CompTIA A+
Windows 7
CompTIA Network +
Windows Server 2008
Microsoft SQL Server 2008
Microsoft Exchange Server 2010
Apple Certified Support Professional
Microsoft SharePoint 2010
‎Cisco Certified Entry Network Technician
‎Cisco Certified Network Associate
Security+
Virtualization and Cloud Computing
Certified Wireless Technology Specialist

At the end, when I graduate, the institute is providing pay for three certifications. To my knowledge, off of the top of my head, these are the three certs they are paying for: CompTIA A+, CompTIA Network+, CompTIA Security+. To my knowledge, and from what I have read, these certs are entry level certs and can usually get your 'foot right in the door'. Is this the truth, and will it be fairly difficult to find a job, and how would I go about finding one in the first place? What are some good places?

I'm just wondering what's at the end of the tunnel for me with certifications like that. Something I am also very worried about, I don't have a college degree, just a GED. Rather than attending community college or university, I decided to enroll into this program. So, in reality, all I have to my name will be those certifications, a diploma from the school itself, and a GED. Is that enough even for entry level positions, and in the future, higher positions even if I earn more certifications (random example, CCNA... etc)?

Any advice, tips, etc, is very much appreciated. Thank you so much!

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Comments

Master Of Puppets

I couldn't understand what exactly in IT you wish to make your career. This decision will pretty much determine the certifications but the CompTIA ones are always a great start. I would say it is a great idea to cert up because this is a great way to learn. However, what will help the most is experience. Try to get an internship or something like that so you can get some hands-on. Sites like indeed, monster, linked in etc. can be very helpful. You will most likely find something suitable on the net, a lot of stuff there. If you can't find anything, some volunteer work can help. After all the goal is to get real world exposure. Another way is checking whether there is something IT-related you can do at your school.What will get you noticed at this point is the certs. I think that waiting until you graduate to get an IT job will be a bit of a waste. IMHO, now is the time to cert up and get your foot through the door with some entry level position so you can build experience.

instant000

My first question is "how much does this school cost?"

We might be able to provide you with less expensive and more effective resources than that institute, especially since it is not even a degree.

Also, find a job as soon as possible. Even A+ helps if you're competing against someone who doesn't have that.

NetworkVeteran

An A+ will qualify you for entry-level technical work and the Network+ and Security+ are not bad complements.

If you complete this study plan you should be able to find an entry-level job. If you quit this school tomorrow and earned your A+ on your own, you should also be able to find an entry-level job. Non-degree diplomas like this hold little to no weight in the industry so this course of study is a good idea if and only if it's quick and inexpensive, as instant and MoP hint at.

pjbsod

Thank you so much for your replies!

The reason I am going to this institute is because they provide a hands-on environment for each and every one of the courses, as well as books. I would obviously just leave the school and study on my own, however, the hands-on experience and books for me as well as having a professor be there is the best for me personally to learn. Studying at home works great for some, but I am not perfect, and I lose focus and inspiration quickly when I'm studying on my own. Also, the fact of having to go to said institute full time has really forced me to positively change lifestyles. That may sound cliche and lame, but I have to grow up sooner than later!

In regards to what career path I want to choose, that is my problem, I am not too sure yet. So far, networking (NOC tech, etc) looks like something I would really enjoy. However, again, I am not too sure yet. Regardless, from what I can gather, even before I graduate from this institute, if I can gather up the money, it would be worth it taking the certifications now before then?

That leads me to another question... are there any prerequisites to taking a certification exam, and how do you go about buying a slot for one in the first place?

Thanks!

Master Of Puppets

There are no prerequisites for the CompTIA certs but there are for some of Cisco's. For example you can't do CCNA Voice if you don't have CCENT(by the new rules) but skipping certs, in general, like that is not recommended at all in this case so do them by order. Just wait a while and you fill find out what interests you. Like we all established doing A/N+ and probably Sec+ will be a great start and after that you can determine where to go. If ti is networking the CCENT and CCNA are a logical next step. As far as booking the exam, go to the website and you'll see everything you need to know. And yes it will be a good idea to do the certs now instead of waiting, like everyone said.

instant000

Are there no community colleges in your area?

A community college would also offer hands on, and be a lot more affordable.

cyberguypr

The problem is that we have sen a lot of IT institutes that fill the student's eyes with images of successful IT pros with many certs, making 6 figures, and doing all kinds of cool stuff. They tell you the will prepare you for that but in many cases what they provide falls short of the expectations. Usually there's a ridiculously high price tag associated with it. I'm not saying all of them are like that, just that there are way too many of those out there.

The OP has a good point, not everyone learns the same way. Self- learning is not for everyone. If traditional classes work better for him, then he just has to make sure his institute doesn't fall into the category I mentioned above.

tpatt100

You are 20 years old, I would find a community college and go there. Take your time and explore the field to discover your interests. Don't worry about a grocery list of stuff a school will teach you because odds are you will find your interests change as time passes.

tstrip007

As far as figuring out what you want to do, this is what I did. I got a helpdesk job with no degree and no certs based off free lance web design I did. Once on the job I was able to see first hand what the developers, dba, and system/network engineer, etc did on a daily basis. I liked what the systems/network guy was doing so I just got myself involved by going to his office EVERY DAY asking him if I could help or assist in any way possible. Luckily for me he was very willing to teach me what he was doing and why, while I was "assisting". A year later I had an office and was working underneath him as systems support/ jr. sysadmin. After three and half years, I'm just now beginning to get certified in these technologies I've become familiar with. Hope any that helps.

pjbsod

Thank you all for your straight-forward and detailed replies, very much appreciated! I am young, and there are a lot of things in life and in the job field I don't understand or know yet, and am quite nervous, so this helps out a lot.

cyberguypr wrote: »

The problem is that we have sen a lot of IT institutes that fill the student's eyes with images of successful IT pros with many certs, making 6 figures, and doing all kinds of cool stuff. They tell you the will prepare you for that but in many cases what they provide falls short of the expectations. Usually there's a ridiculously high price tag associated with it. I'm not saying all of them are like that, just that there are way too many of those out there.

The OP has a good point, not everyone learns the same way. Self- learning is not for everyone. If traditional classes work better for him, then he just has to make sure his institute doesn't fall into the category I mentioned above.

Absolutely, thank you so much for understanding. I am fully aware that after leaving this institute, I am not going to make anywhere near six figures. I would be way too afraid anyways if that was the truth regardless, because I want to start entry level and work my up and I think that would be best to figure out what I like best too! I mean, right now, networking is what I am most interested in, but in an entry level job (help desk for example), I would imagine I may end up liking something even more!!

So, overall, from what I have gathered, I should acquire the certs I am interested in (Security+, A+, Network+) ASAP and then go out there and apply, hopefully get a job, and go from there and get some field experience to see what interests me the most.

jonny72

In the UK the college courses (16-18 year olds) in IT are poor at best. How they manage to make them last two years without actually teaching the kids anything useful is beyond me. Whilst Comptia isn't too popular over here, I'd say anyone with A+, Network+ and Security+ would find an entry level job pretty quickly as you'd be way ahead of others applying for it.

If you're happy with the institute, it works for you and you've researched other options then stick with it. Different people need to study in different ways and you just need to keep with what's best for you. If you can get some experience somewhere, a friends businesses, helping friends and family, volunteering at a charity then do it - experience is just as valuable as certifications.

If it's an option, don't wait to apply for jobs either - sooner you start applying the sooner you'll get one. Any job in IT will do to start with, though one with a company that can provide a good career progression is better, same for one doing something you enjoy and want to do long term. Sometimes you have to take a job you don't really want to get to where you want to be longer term.

SephStorm

I'm going to disagree with most here, I support the OP going to the institute. OP has experience already that dwarfs many in his position. I've been in IT nearly 10 years and i've never done a **** analysis, and yet that could have been helpful just today. (I realize he didnt learn that from the school.)

Hands on training is my foremost concern. Many community colleges claim their courses are hands on, but i'm not sold on it. I've seen programs at B&M CC's that offer AS degrees that "Prepare you to take the Network+ exam". Thats it. This guy has the opportunity to learn a wide range of skills that he wont find in most CC's outside of a degree program, or multiple certificate programs. With the list he put up there, i'd hire him on the spot because he could replace half of the individual specialists we have in our department.

IMO, having a GED will not be held against you in most cases. once you have secondary education or experience, those rise above a diploma.

I say go for it, bring a wide range of skills to the table, get certified, and master your skills. Good employers will see that. And use your resources, network and dont wait for your institute to provide job placement.

Good luck.

pjbsod

REMOVED UNNECESSARY QUOTED REPLY FROM PREVIOUS POST

Wow, thank you so much for your reply (and your kind words)!

And everyone as well, everything so far and what you have all said is very much appreciated! Great bunch of skilled and informative individuals here

instant000

The OP never revealed the name of the school.

I may have found it:
Information Technology

The annual tuition is $13,750, but OP may qualify for Pell Grants and/or scholarships to reduce that amount. (I only found this number after doing a financial aid calculator, but there could be direct links to this information somewhere.)

Since I'm not from the New York area, I have no idea if this career school is reputable or not. What I do know is that this is about half the price of a more popular school with a MUCH lesser name: ITT Tech (25K per year).

To go back to the original question as to whether or not one could be successful in IT regardless of degree:
Yes, you can.

Please note that having a degree opens up more opportunities for you, obviously, but in the beginning, it may not be much of a pay differentiator if you're just going for entry level positions in the first place. Having marketable skills does make sense.

Priority one is probably getting experience, then you can work on community college classes online, get an associates, then transfer community college credits into a bigger name degree.

Of course, that is besides the point that you can have a successful career in IT without formal schooling beyond a GED. There are many posters here that can demonstrate that to you. The truth is that you can do both, and if you're young, it would be easier to do now, than later.

My caution is that saving $5,000 now at age 20 is worth a lot more to your future than saving that same amount once you're 30. The fact that you're trying to address your concerns right now puts you far ahead of many of your peers.

I say get employed, start saving some money, and work at the education (affordably) on the back end. Get the best education that fits within your budget. If you need some cost effective ideas on pursuing further education (after you get employed and working, as experience is king in IT), then you can post more threads here, or over at DegreeInfo Distance Learning - online degree forum - The Front Page. Our forum here is more certification focused, while that certification over there is more degree focused. Most of IT requires a mix of education, certs, and experience. Experience is king, but certs and education help, especially when you are competing against a candidate of approximately the same experience.

Hope this helps.

pjbsod

Yep, that's the school! Thanks a lot for your post and recommendations! That seems like the best idea so far. Getting the certs and working for awhile and on the back-end I work on my schooling again!!