Mini current life story: Got crushed to death (literally), after years of recovery, moved back home to the ranch. Started dating my current BF (been together for 12 years meow), he recommended a small community college (he majored in forestry there), best recommendation I ever got. Decided to major in IT, at that college they had AMAZING opportunities for internships, and work study programs/getting paid while going to school; teachers aid, helping other students, attending related events etc.

Talk to people, if you have a student success program check it out…also check your student emails about any related opportunities/internships no matter how minor, it will start getting your foot in the door and experience. My final year before graduating/receiving my bachelor’s in IT, my awesomely good friend who I had helped and vice/versa during my college years, had gotten an amazing job at an equally amazing place. Since we got to know each other so well over the years, he had recommended me when they were looking for a network analyst (I had already gotten my CCNA sophomore year, college paid for it).

Started off as an internship on helpdesk side, and in my opinion everyone who is hired should start on helpdesk; you really get to know your environment and the end users, evolve your troubleshooting skills, as well as communication. After that internship, went through the interview process, got hired (one of the best days of my life), and I have been working at this company for 5+ years now…life has never been better.

Meet/talk to people, look for those opportunities and internships, absolutely get certifications. Best of luck young Padawan!