Re: College degrees, knowledge gained and reputations enhanced

[Limbic~Region]

BUU,
I do not have a degree. I never matriculated into college. I barely graduated high school.
Do I feel that not having a degree has hindered me from getting computer/IT related jobs? No.

My first IT job was in the US Army. I got this job because I scored extremely well on their standardized test. No degree required.

My second IT job was as a defense contractor making 5 times what I was making in the Army. I got the job because of my reputation. I got out of the Army 4 years early because I convinced the Army that this was an "opportunity of a lifetime" (Chapter 5-3). A degree was mandatory. I didn't learn this until a year later when I was reviewing the job requirements against perspective resumes for my boss.

My third IT job was as a contractor for the Dept. of Justice, another substantial pay raise. I got this job because the particular project I was hired to work was in danger of being out-sourced. They needed to hire someone who could turn things around quickly and wouldn't need a lot of training. Was a degree required - of course.

My fourth, and current, IT job is as a government employee for the TSA. I got this job because of my reputation at the DoJ. Is a degree required - you have got to be kidding. I was unemployed for 3 months while all the waivers were processed to bring me on board.

Ok, so my view is a little tainted. I would chalk my success up to interviewing well, sharing information, and being blessed by God. Do I feel that having a degree would/could help me. I look around at the brilliant monks here at the Monastery and certainly think so.

Cheers - L~R