I am recently laid off from a tire building plant, and taking this unemployed time to enhance my knowledge. I’m currently prepping for my CompTIA A+ cert, but at 24, with minimal college education in computer networking, I’m feeling against a wall…
PCs have always been a hobby and working on them is a task I always enjoyed, so I couldn’t think of a better career option to choose, but I have zero expierience that I can put on a resume.
I’m beginning to find that most people work in a Help Desk position for 6months-1year before taking the A+ cert. They all have a hands on experience that can only help them. As a guy at home reading a book, I feel like I’m only gaining 50% of knowledge. I don’t have access to laser printers, or multiple computers to network and work on.
At this point, money isn’t a concern, and I’m applying to every entry level PC related job I can find in my area, but I’m getting no luck in landing a job. I understand they want cert’s, but I’m needing a better education style beside’s a text book with black and white pictures.
What should I aim for: Experience or Certification?
Any other advice you can give me?
(btw, long story short, going back to college isnt really an option, especially in this economy. i can get a student loan, but don’t want that hanging over my head when i graduate and still can’t find a job. The cost of my Mike Meyer’s CompTIA book collection > another year’s tuition)