Not sure where to start...

Anonymous

April 24,2023 at 2:00PM UTC

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Not sure where to start...

I'm 34 years old. I'm currently an operations/office assistant at a moving company and if I stay there I have no doubt I'll move up eventually, but the training isn't exactly organized. It's more like when the other 3 people in my office have time. or remember. I also am just not really a fan of the industry. It seems even more unorganized and complicated than retail. I am finishing up my first semester in an associate's degree in Computer and Information Systems, but working full time I'm only going to able to do 2 classes a semester without getting completely overwhelmed. I am taking the summer off of classes and I'm wondering what a good computer certification would be to get. I'm decent with computer basics but I don't have an IT background and I am very overwhelmed with all of the options. I know I need somewhat of a structured course that I can hopefully do at my own pace.

I don't yet know what direction I want to go in. I'm not sure exactly what I'd be good at. I know I'm better with software than hardware. So something basic or something that could potentially get my foot in the door. I was thinking something along the lines of web development or data analysis. Any suggestions would be appreciated.

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Laura de la CruzApril 24,2023 at 3:11PM UTC
Just do what feels good to you. You are the only one who truly knows what's best for you, just connect with yourself. And, if you can, take a look at the book The Artist's Way by Julia Cameron, it will help you connect with yourself and open up to new opportunities that probably you are not seing. And, remember to enjoy the process!!
KatApril 24,2023 at 4:19PM UTC
Have you talked with an advisor or a career counselor where you are getting your AA at? They would be able to tell you what career paths IT has (software design, UX, web design, info systems, database management, analytics) available based on your strengths and interests. There might be assessments you can do to help narrow down your options as well. Check to see if there' s more financial aid available to get your degree faster. You might be able to work part time instead of full time with enough financial aid. If the moving company isn't the right place for you, there's plenty of other office jobs out there that might be a better fit. A different industry/work environment might allow you more time to concentrate on your studies.
AnonymousApril 24,2023 at 6:33PM UTC
I have not spoken with an advisor. I'm going to a community college and when I went previously (13 years ago), they were not very helpful, and I've heard the same thing from other students recently, but I may reach out anyways. Can't hurt. I'll look into assessments. I'm staying at this job because I've had some ups and down with my mental health the last couple of years and my boss here is extremely understanding about needing the occasional day off or having various doctor appointments. I don't want to switch jobs unless I've got that part completely stabilized. But that should be happening soon so I will consider looking for a different work environment. I appreciate your response.
Christi LopezApril 26,2023 at 1:07PM UTC
Something you might consider is scheduling an appointment with an advisor at a local University. I've found that they are much better about providing resources and support, and my school has financial aid funds specifically for non-traditional (older) students. Even if you don't decide to go there, they can be a great source of information.
AnonymousApril 26,2023 at 7:51PM UTC
I will consider this, thank you.
BeaBoss979975April 24,2023 at 4:40PM UTC
Don't take out loans if you can avoid it. They will hang over you the rest of your life unless you are smart and go after them immediately. Scholarships or grants are great if you can get them. Research non-traditional scholarships and grants; money is out there.
AnonymousApril 24,2023 at 6:27PM UTC
I'm going to my local community college so it's cheap enough for me to pay as I go and my current job does tuition reimbursement as long as I pass the classes.
BeaBoss979975April 25,2023 at 5:48PM UTC
Excellent. There are some programs where you write your own major and skip the classes you find are irrelevant.
AnonymousApril 25,2023 at 11:20AM UTC
Definitely consider data analysis, becoming an expert with Excel has come a long way, also look at the programs that project managers use. All of this lends itself to so many industries. There are great project manager books, look at current publications, that will allow you to have a glimpse of that role and programs. Use your time wisely for sure.
Lisa AdamsApril 27,2023 at 1:43PM UTC
Join The Women Who Code. You will find all sorts of assistance to create a path forward. If you do that one thing, you will have a bright future!
AnonymousApril 29,2023 at 6:10PM UTC
I just joined, it looks like an excellent resource, thank you!
Lisa AdamsApril 29,2023 at 10:32PM UTC
Make sure you go to the find your network page. That is where you will see all of the different technical paths (Tracks). Join the slack channels for all of the tracks to learn something about each of them to help you decide. There are so many options: Data Science, Python (my favorite), Front End Dev, Block Chain, Cloud...etc.
AnonymousApril 28,2023 at 8:06PM UTC
Keep an eye out for opportunities at the level you're already proficient at. You may find a situation where additional learning would be paid for!
AnonymousApril 29,2023 at 6:11PM UTC
Unfortunately I don't believe I am proficient in anything IT related yet, but I am working on it. Thank you for your response!
AnonymousMay 1,2023 at 4:21PM UTC
To be clear make the time for your career if you really want one those instant certification classes are not favorably looked at by companies where you could have a career. Make the time to get a proper education if you want to be in Computer Science and the software side is far more lucrative than the hardware side unless you want to be in repairing them.
AnonymousMay 1,2023 at 7:18PM UTC
I just started an IT degree, but want to get want to get good certs also just to get my foot in the door making at least what I'm making now. The degree is going to take me a long time while working full-time.