Need advice on career, school.

[mgordon99]

I am one year into a two-year degree program in Computer Service and Network Technology. As some of you know, I have my CNA, and am 3 passed tests away from CNE from Novell.

I have a pretty strong opportunity of landing a live support position this summer. The problem is, I have a class scheduled already for the summer. This is a temporary position that will end in late September or early October. Taking classes during this job is out of the question, as it involves a lot of travel. My fall classes start in the end of August, so it will screw things up there also. I have three children and my wife to provide for; we are barely surviving on public assistance while I go to school full-time.

I really made a commitment to myself to finish my degree in two years and not to drag it out. I have maintained a 3.67GPA also. I guess I am asking, what would you do in my position? If I take the job, it will be good experience and money that I need, but it also will probably push my graduation a semester or more than expected behind.

What would you do?

[dexmax]

I tell you, go back to school and get an engineering degree. With your acquired skills from your previous studies-- it'll help you a lot.

Never stop learning... That's what i always tell myself.

Attend seminars...

[Szech]

OOoohh... tight situation here. Let me just say right off that I feel your pain. I know how much it stings to have to juggle work and school. As for your situation, how badly do you need the money from the job? Will the public assistance end if you take the job? Have you already paid for tuition?

If you already paid a substancial amount for the classes, I say stick with the classes. If your public assistance will end if you take the job, I say stick with the classes. If neither of these is the case, and you need the money that badly, then I would say take the job. BUT, as dexmax said, be sure to finish your education.

Good luck, and I hope the best for you http://sysopt.earthweb.com/forum/smile.gif.

[mgordon99]

Yes the assistance will end if I get a job. My classes are basically all paid for with grant money, because I am at the bottom of the income ladder, and I have 3 children.

My 3 year old son is disabled, and recieves SSI monthly, which also helps pay the bills. That will be reduced depending on how much I make.

Actually, I am also contemplating starting a little computer business from my home. That would seem to make more sense, as far as fitting my work schedule around school. I have been working on a business plan little by little. I can get financing with my written business plan, the hard part is trying to estimate the sales and profits of the proposed business, and what it will take in sales and hours to reach it.



[This message has been edited by mgordon99 (edited 05-31-2000).]