Should I finish my diploma or find work?

Right now, I'm finishing up the first year of a two year diploma program. Most graduates from my program find themselves in a desktop support role upon graduation.

I'm thinking about looking for a desktop support role right now. If I could get one with my diploma, would it not be a bad idea to try to save a year and get one now?

I'd like to point out that I have a Bachelor degree in history, A+, Network+, and I'm currently studying for CCNA & MCSA. I also have 2 years IT experience in a small office in which I set up and managed the LAN, and was the "go-to" guy anytime somebody needed support. I feel that because of my degree (even with it not being in IT) and certifications that I may be qualified enough to find an actual Desktop support position where I could move up, gather experience, and pursue subsequent, and more specialized certifications.

What do you guys think?

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Comments

gbdavidx

experience usually trumps degree, as long as you finish it you should be ok and you have the most common certs to land a desktop job

RedGaiter

I'd like to point out that I ALREADY HAVE a degree. The program I'm considering withdrawing from is a basic 2 year IT diploma program.

markulous

I would start applying now. You have an A+ and Network+ and a little experience already, I think you'd be able to swing an entry-level help desk job. I don't see any reason to wait.

White Wizard

As others have said experience trumps a degree.

Since you have a bachelors already although not in IT, I would say its best to knock out as many certs as you can while gaining experience. I have yet to see a job posting that specifically listed " must have an IT degree".

Good luck

gbdavidx

i believe my director has a bachelor of arts degree lol

ande0255

I have seen quite a few jobs that require a BS degree in Computer Science, but always has "...or equivalent experience" tacked onto the end of it, and as above poster said, I see mostly non-IT BS degrees that still meet a degree requirement as they are not always CS specific.

I personally could not stand another 2 years at school with a full time job, but if you can, or you don't need to worl much to make ends mert I'd finish the degree if you're enjoying going to school.

[Deleted User]

RedGaiter: (You and me both) Start applying!! I just want to finish off my semester in college right now and get out!! I still have one more year unfortunately

I am working on my B.S in IT. I still have to finish my minor yet!! I just want to get my CCNA this coming summer, finish my degree, and be finished!!

Xyro

Honestly, I am wondering why you ever started the program. You have two years of IT experience, a bachelor's degree, and a couple of entry-level certifications. Nonetheless, I have an issue with finishing items that have been started, so I could never tell you to quit. My recommendation because of this would be to start looking for a HelpDesk position while you also finish your diploma.