Attention Computer Geek friends 2.0

[fencerm2]

Ok, so, in an effort to do something more with my existence, I have  been researching using my knowledge of computers, and taking it to the next level and getting certification for Comptia A+ and Network+.  Taking advice from my last post about this about a month ago, I acquired a book, and began to learn more.  However - and this has often been my problem - there are times I lack the necessary discipline to really make this happen.

The first class I considered ran $1800+, and did NOT end in the certification tests.  Now I have another opportunity - a 7 day "boot camp" class in NYC for $2400 that DOES end in the certification tests (which are included in that price).

Is this a good deal?  Should I do this?  I took an assesment test - 30 questions - scored 90%, got 27 right.  I am presuming that's enough that they will pre-qual me for this class.

Please opinionate!  Thank you!!

Comments

[kielbasa-007.livejournal.com]

Comptia doesn't really carry a lot of weight. If you want a sure-fire network cert to get you a job go for CISSP

[mare-in-flames.livejournal.com]

I'm really not a fan of most of these classes - it's a cash cow that a lot of unqualified people have jumped onto.

How much does the goddamned test cost, anyway? For what is probably a small fraction of the money, you can go in and take it cold and find out whether you're close or not.

I personally think you're better off finding a friend who has A+ certification and bartering with them for scheduled study time. Or giving the goddamned money to someone who's using the cert in their everyday work and having THEM teach you, forgodsake.

Signed, she who is CNE since 3.12, MCSE since 3.51, inveterate hardware monkey since the early nineties, and didn't take classes for any of this shit, not that I'm biased or nuthin, nope, not me... ok, maybe a little

[weezeld.livejournal.com]

I agree with the other comments. Don't waste that kind of money on the classes. If you got 27/30 right, you might be able to walk in and pass the test just by finishing reading the book. Seriously. If there is a concept in the book that you aren't clear on, gimme a call and we can talk about it. Don't waste your money.