Many first-time vocational students tend to carry a know-it-all attitude. As a senior I know firsthand what that’s like, as I used to be one of those kids. Many students sustain the mentality of “I don’t need to go to college! I’m gonna be making six figures right out of high school.” I want to be the first to point out that this is not true, especially when it comes to computer networking and its surrounding areas of expertise.
In some technology careers, having certificates can carry the same weight as a college degree. But this usually includes years of dedication to learning and you may need to apply for several certificates. As far as computer networking is concerned you need, at the very least, three certificates to even be considered applicable in the industry. These three certifications include the A+, Net+, and the Security+. These tests are extremely difficult to pass. On top of everything else CompTIA has made a new rule which states the certificates are only valid for three years, which means you’ll need to retake them after the third year is up. And even then you’re not guaranteed employment. More than likely an applicant with a degree would be hired on before you.
If you have certifications by your side, many colleges will honor them. With your certificates available you may simply need to take your core classes. This is great for those of you who feel college or school in general isn’t the right fit. But even if school isn’t for you, you should without a doubt stick to it until you get your degree. It is extremely useful in the workforce and even worth it after having gone through college.
After your hard work, you’ll certainly be compensated. According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics , “In May 2008, median annual wages of wage-and-salary computer applications software engineers were $85,430. The middle 50 percent earned between $67,790 and $104,870. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $57,810, and the highest 10 percent earned $135,780.” A bachelor’s degree is totally worth the effort in order to earn that much money. I know the answer, and I’m sure you do too. So make the right choice and get a college education. I promise you’ll be thankful you did after you graduate.
Image Source: jscreationzs / FreeDigitalPhotos.net
In some technology careers, having certificates can carry the same weight as a college degree. But this usually includes years of dedication to learning and you may need to apply for several certificates. As far as computer networking is concerned you need, at the very least, three certificates to even be considered applicable in the industry. These three certifications include the A+, Net+, and the Security+. These tests are extremely difficult to pass. On top of everything else CompTIA has made a new rule which states the certificates are only valid for three years, which means you’ll need to retake them after the third year is up. And even then you’re not guaranteed employment. More than likely an applicant with a degree would be hired on before you.
If you have certifications by your side, many colleges will honor them. With your certificates available you may simply need to take your core classes. This is great for those of you who feel college or school in general isn’t the right fit. But even if school isn’t for you, you should without a doubt stick to it until you get your degree. It is extremely useful in the workforce and even worth it after having gone through college.
After your hard work, you’ll certainly be compensated. According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics , “In May 2008, median annual wages of wage-and-salary computer applications software engineers were $85,430. The middle 50 percent earned between $67,790 and $104,870. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $57,810, and the highest 10 percent earned $135,780.” A bachelor’s degree is totally worth the effort in order to earn that much money. I know the answer, and I’m sure you do too. So make the right choice and get a college education. I promise you’ll be thankful you did after you graduate.
Image Source: jscreationzs / FreeDigitalPhotos.net
