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!