Tony Said:

Entering Network Security Career?

We Answered:

The CISSP, while good, doesn't really give you the practical knowledge for implementing security on a network. It is in high demand, but it won't teach you to configure a PIX or Checkpoint or pentest your own network or properly VLANing your network.

The first thing you have to understand is the IT field *loves* certifications in lieu of experience. From that point of view, the Network+ is what I would recommend as your first certification. The CCNA, while Cisco specific, does cover an extensive amount of networking concepts above and beyond the Network+ certification. If you choose to stay Cisco-centric, the CCNA is more or less the first Cisco exam you'll need to pass anyway. The CISSP could easily be the next inline certification (again, just my opinion).

From there, you're going to decide really what to pursue. Security Administrators really need to know a lot about firewalls, remote access, malware mitigation,etc. Security Consultants need to run the gambit and cover a little bit of everything. This is where certifications like Certified Ethical Hacker and "hacking" specific SANS certifications apply.

Either way, the security field is still going strong despite the economy so while it's not going to be a short road, it could prove very profitable.
Good Luck.

Cynthia Said:

How do I make the transition?

We Answered:

Go back to school to get your Masters in Social Work.

Barry Said:

Can someone please edit my essay for errors and punctuation?

We Answered:

Do you have Microsoft Office ? I do all of my essays and papers for college in it and there is a spellchecker and also it picks up on grammar errors.

Marsha Said:

Can someone please edit my introductory paragraph for the MSW personal statement?

We Answered:

Wonderful Job!
2 places you repeated a word.

Preparation for my personal goal BEGAN BEGAN when I worked at Harbor View Adolescent Center as a Youth Counselor. My primary work responsibility involved my serving as a positive ROLE ROLE model for adolescents

Freddie Said:

HELP!! Professional networking: I am a new MBA seeking referrals from people with mid-large companies?

We Answered:

Join a professional networking group, such as Linkedin.com.

It's free, no obligation, and it should give you a leg up into the world of networking.

Jesus Said:

What is the best way to get into a human resouce generalist position?

We Answered:

it seems like you have more than enough experience to be a human resource generalist, you may even be over quailified

over qualified can be just as bad as under qualified because the company will think that you will not stay with the job and probably want more pay than they are willing to give.

i do not think the time and money you spend on additional schooling would benefit you enough to go back.

i would also double check your resume for errors and possibly pay someone to fine tune it

maybe the salary you are requesting is too high

make sure the objective section on your resume is clear, concise, and job specific

make a good cover letter to include with your resume that lists duties and job achievements that relate to human resources

try to contact companies directly after you email or snail mail your resume so they know you are very interested and can distinguish you from other candidates

good luck

Lucy Said:

Can someone please edit my essay?

We Answered:

As a single mother, I have been confronted with, and have successfully overcome issues such as poverty, financial hardships, homelessness, and single parenting. Consequently, I have become committed to helping others achieve personal growth, as well as a state of general well-being. I have worked with individuals from diverse backgrounds, who were facing issues such as homelessness, living with a disability, aging, mental illness, and raising a child as a single parent. As a result of my own personal experiences, I am able to relate to the constant despair and frustration experienced by those who find it challenging to cope with everyday life. I am convinced that increasing one’s own sense of empowerment can make the difference between a future of despondency and one filled with hope.
I am applying to the Master’s in Social Work Program because it is a step toward pursuing my life's mission: helping others in embracing their inner potential to make a positive life transition. Preparation to achieve my personal goal began while I worked at Harbor View Adolescent Center as a Youth Counselor. My primary work responsibility was to serve as a positive role model for adolescents between the ages of twelve to eighteen. The adolescents encountered issues such as physical and sexual abuse, abandonment, drug and alcohol abuse, bulimia, depression, and severe behavioral problems. At times, the position was extremely stressful, however, I discovered that I had the ability to connect with the adolescents and develop strong emotional ties. While working with them, I focused on several areas of treatment, including, social skills, vocational skills, and independent living skills. My main ambition was to help them build their self-esteem and improve their sense of security. As a youth counselor, I have gained valuable experience in listening to people, and helping them make positive decisions in order to improve the quality of their lives. My career goal specifically targets working with vulnerable and oppressed individuals, because I want to ensure that these groups of individuals have access to effective services, quality resources, and much needed guidance.
There are several aspects of my personal strengths that I can bring to the field of Social Work. I am highly caring in regards to individual needs and feelings. I have the ability to communicate effectively with people and listen to their needs as well. I also speak Spanish fluently and I can help meet the needs of Spanish speaking clients. As far as my administration abilities, I am very efficient with using a computer, reports, quarterlies, and paperwork documentation. I received an outstanding award for being a "Change Leader in 2008" for improving the quality of lives of the adolescents that I serve. I am diligently making sure that each of their medical needs are met.
Social workers work to create a change towards equality, justice, human rights, and the well-being of all individuals. This includes, but is not limited to, the most helpless in society, the disadvantaged, poor, vulnerable and oppressed individuals. Social workers empower individuals with the tools necessary to achieve their goals and live their lives to the fullest. This is why I am going to devote my life to helping create a more equitable society. All individuals have a fundamental right to live decent, dignified, and productive lives, but society is structured in a way that not all individuals have equal access to food, housing, education and employment opportunities. As social workers, it is our responsibility to ensure that individual needs are met so people can be more self-sufficient and able to make the best possible choices for themselves.