I've recently taken the plunge into homeschooling myself to dive deeper into programming, IT, cybersecurity, and data science. Traditional high school was just too slow for me! I've crafted a solid learning roadmap, starting with C and information tech. However, when I looked up certifications like CompTIA and Cisco, I was shocked to find many of them seem like scams. Seriously, why should I fork out $400 just to prove I can install Windows or navigate Linux? These tasks don't reflect deep IT knowledge or real skills. So, I'm wondering, are there any credible IT exams out there that I should consider?
2 Answers
Honestly, I get the skepticism about certifications, but saying all of them are scams isn't really fair. While yes, some might feel overhyped, a lot of companies still respect those qualifications. If you're looking for something more concrete, maybe you should check out bootcamps that offer certificates based on projects you've completed. It could give you a more relevant experience and comfort level in your desired field.
That's a fair point about some certifications feeling more like cash grabs than real skill assessments. But keep in mind that recognized certifications like CompTIA and Cisco can actually help you land a job or get your foot in the door, because many employers still look for those credentials. They may seem basic, but they show you have foundational knowledge that can be built upon. Have you thought about looking into other certifications that are more project-based? They could be more aligned with what you want to learn.
For sure, some project-based certifications could give you a better practical understanding. Things like Google Cloud or AWS certifications focus more on real-world skills, so those might suit your needs better!
Exactly! I know some bootcamps can be pricey too, but they tend to focus more on hands-on experience, which can be super valuable.