Getting Started in IT

I constantly get asked what does it take to get into IT? You have to be a nerd? You have to be good with computers? This is partially true...

It really depends on what you really like to do. Do you like coding and automating things? Do you like to review Windows 7/10 or Sever issues? Are you into Cisco and other networking hardware? There are different chains of technology.

For someone that is still in school and is asking themselves if there is something they need to be doing while attending class - YES - there is. When I was still in college going for my degree in Information Technology, I was able to find a contract position with Kohl's Corporate working in their Data Center's. Although the shift I had was 3rd shift and working 12.5 each night and going to school after each shift - it did provide me with professional experience working on servers and different end user support during the time I was still in school. It's kind of like hitting two nails on the head with one hammer. The moral of the story is that you are able to experience the area of technology you are going to school for by applying for an internship or a contract/temp position just to, 1, get some experience of that role in a professional work environment, 2, you will need this experience to complete your studies for school, and 3, it allows you to asses whether or not you like that specific area of technology. Sometimes you have to sacrifice your time for a couple years while in school to also work in that same field to bring some experience to the table when applying for higher level positions. Keep hustling and educating yourself!

A reminder, the workforce now is relatively hot with different opportunities in IT. Don't take that first rejection email as a sign that you are not ever going to find a position. Make sure to be open to entry level positions as you have to start somewhere. It is very typical to get a rejection letter - if you keep pushing yourself and review what the employer is looking for and actually provide feedback as to why you are a good candidate for the position, you are bound to land a role or at least get an in person interview so that they have the ability to actually see/hear you speak about your passion for IT. The answer will always be NO if you don't ask or apply!

You do not need to be a nerd to be in IT. You just have to have that passion for development and new technologies. Understanding how they play a role in an organization and how they can improve efficiency. Having an interest in technology is definitely a good attribute to have when thinking about getting into the IT field.

P.S: I hope this article in some way assists newly interested individuals in IT, Current IT students, or graduates looking to get into the field. You are a not alone. Just remember to utilize your resources!

Thank you all for reading!