July 13, 2011 at 5:08 pm
Hello there, new to the forums. Stumbled here and noticed you guys have a great community.
I'm requesting assistance with some career advice. Currently I'm working as an Access developer/admin and am looking for a job in the Hartford area. I do enjoy working with Access, but I feel that it has limited career potential. I love and have a passion for anything database related and I assume most of you do as well. Last year at this time I was looking at the job market/contemplating graduate school. I started getting into SQL Server and started reading the MCTS EXAM 432 training kit from Microsoft. That's when I decided to go to graduate school and I am expecting my MBA degree in a few weeks. I took the Access job a couple months ago because I finally had a time in my hectic school schedule, in addition to the need of money and experience.
I have little knowledge with SQL Server, but once my courses are over, I plan to dive into the SQL Server books. I will be looking for a job that has anything to deal with SQL Server, but my ultimate goal is to become a DBA. I have an extreme desire to learn new things, either computer or business related (hence the MBA).
I have seen many jobs that deal with SQL Server, but many are coupled with C or Java requirements, which I have no experience with other than college courses. I was wondering if anyone could offer any advice on how to get started? I always see jobs such as Business Analyst, Systems Analyst, but they all require a few years experience. It is rare to find anything entry level related to SQL Server.
Anyways, thanks in advance!
-Franuzz
July 13, 2011 at 5:21 pm
Anything labeled 'Jr. DBA' is usually entry level. I would strat by frequenting this blog and getting familiar with SQL server. Also, you can try to volunteer, (if time allows), to get experience. Good Luck on you goal!!!
July 13, 2011 at 5:34 pm
Become a member of PASS, find a local SQL Server user group
http://www.sqlpass.org/PASSChapters/USNortheast.aspx
Attend the meetings, introduce your self to other attending. In our user group frequent meeting sponsor(s) are consulting firms, employment firms wanting to talk to potential applicants. Do not be shy about being a newbie, let people know you are, and that you are looking for employment in a entry level position as either a DB Developer or DBA. Most jobs, good ones anyway, are not advertised, but filled by head hunters and by word of mouth, suggestions by those you know.
A second possibility, purchase a copy of SQL Server 2008 Developer Edition - cost about $50.00 available at AMAZON.COM. Work with it to become familiar with the differences between ACCESS and SQL Server.
Good luck.
July 13, 2011 at 6:25 pm
Thanks for the responses!
Unfortunately where I live right now, the PASS chapter doesn't seem too active, while the Southern New England chapter is about an 1hr 40 min drive (once I move to Hartford), but I'd like to somehow network in the Hartford area before I move there.
As for reading material for a beginner, is the Microsoft 2008 Implementation and Maintenance exam book a good start? Should I even worry about getting a certification before any job experience?
Thanks for the advice so far!
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