Should I finish my diploma or find work?

RedGaiter

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?

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.