For kids coming out of college, to have such certifications was required, even if they had no real-world experience. I worked with many. But the business world discovered that there were many talented and experienced people who could actually program routers and run MPLS systems, VOIPs, etc., even without the pedigree, which is why you always see "or 5 years experience" as part of a job description. You sound too judgmental to understand. Having a well-rounded education and experience is far more valuable to a company. It makes you more marketable and able to withstand changing market conditions. Remember the dot com crash of 2000? (Maybe not). You're right...it is a choice. I chose to take a smaller, less stressful job after working through the corporate BS. And during this recession I not only kept my job but negotiated a 10% increase. But you can choose to work for a company where you're just another number instead of a valued person with a name.