Kevin M. of Chester, VA - 12/20/11

About Me - My name is Kevin McCarthy. I am Service Disabled Veteran after serving over 20 years in the United States Navy with a Bachelors Degree in Business Administration. I am have been married for 24 years and the father of two children. My daughter is in her Junior year of college and my son is a sophomore in high school. After my retirement 10 years ago I have had a jobs ranging from High School Teacher, Systems Administrator for Northrop Grumman, Project Manager for SAIC, and owning my own business. Throughout my years in the militry as well as those after retirment I have noticed that all my experiences have one thing in common and that is Information Technology. I have had enough experiences in my life to know that what I want is to secure my future in the IT field. I know what it takes to succeed in this field. I have proven throughout my past that I have what it takes to succeed in this program. This is not just a change of career for me or to obtain employment but a true desire to be a permanent part of the IT field well into the future.

Life Inspiration - My father was my inspiration my entire life. He served his nation during WWII. Not to get into details, he served in some of the harshest and bloodiest battles of the war. He was shot several times while on an advance into Germany. He spent the next several years recovering from his wounds. He had taught me at a very young age that there are no obstacles large enough to keep you from getting what you want. He was alwways dedicated to his family and always did what was right for them. This is one of the reasons why I am making this choice, to take of my family and to always do right by them.

Program Goals - I hope to get everything that this program says it has to offer. I believe this programm will provide me with knowledge to get out in the workforce as a CISCO Certified professional. Their is one thing that I have missed since retiring from the military and that is a sense of belonging and sharing a common goal between my peers. The field that has come close to this from my experience are those assiciated with IT. Along with gaining expert technical knowledge I hope to get back that sense of commonality between my peers.

5 Year Plan - I see myself in one of two place in 5 years. I would always continue my education in the field and put that education into the following. The first would be as a program or project manager responsible for one or many different businesses IT infrastructure. The second is owning my own business that would be able to contract out for services to either the public and or private sectors.

Clint H. of Elyria, OH - 12/19/11

About Me - I am a 31 year old father of three. I spent most of my adult working life in manufacturing and construction trades. In 2006 I decided to go back to school and I recieved an Associates of Applied Science Degree in Computer and Electronic Engineering Technology. I chose this path due to my passion for Computers and technology. I have been tearing down, rebuilding and setting up computers for as long as I can remember. I can even remember taking apart my fathers first home pc which had windows 95 on it and wondering how it worked and I think that day is when I developed the fascination I have today.

Life Inspiration - The inspirational moment in my life happened when I was about ten years old. my father had become the first direct member of my family to graduate with a college degree, and as it turns out a computer science degree. I come from a family of lower income and just about everyone (grandfather, grandmother, father, aunts, and uncles) in my family worked in manufacturing and had not gone to college. That day inspired me to do more than anyone before me and always strive to do better.

Program Goals - I hope to expand my technical abilities and knowledge in a more specialized area of IT. Networking has always been a path that I have dreamed of stepping into, as a matter of fact I was currently in process of setting up classes at the local Community College in my neighborhood to obtain a CompTIA network+ certification when I came across this amazing opportunity.

5 Year Plan - I see myself in a very challenging ever expanding posistion where my skills and knowledge can contribute to the growth and development of a team or company. With my passion and drive to always do more and do it bigger and better and always expand my education I can see myself once again in a leading role where I can use my proficiency as well as that of others to perform at the highest levels.

Florian M. of Spring, TE - 12/16/11

About Me - I am a 33 year old male living in Spring Texas. I'm currently employed as a cable contractor, which includes the installation of cable set top boxes, high speed internet modems, telephone modems, as well as wireless routers. Electronics have always peaked my interest, I'd say it began when I was 16, with my 1st car stereo. From then on it's been a constant part of my life. One of my early professions was installing car stereo systems at Circuit City at the age of 18. Then onto custom home theatre installation, then to my current job as a cable contractor. Computers as obviously a constant part of my life, whether it be personal or professional. I've dabbled on my personal computers quite a bit: adding RAM, swapping out hard drives, adding video cards etc etc, and I personally think that THIS is where it's going. Computers are an absolute in the current society. I truly believe that the IT field is the choice for me. It truly keeps my interest by ever evolving on what seems to be a daily basis, and I feel it will truly give me a career I can maintain for a very long time.

Life Inspiration - My most inspirational person would have to be my Stepfather. Although I didn't know it at the time when I was growing up, I definitely know it now. I have a 6 member family, and he was the sole provider, and we lived well. He worked for Anheuser-Busch here locally in Houston. He went to work EVERYDAY, no questions asked. The "Graveyard shift" at that. I never really saw him much, obviously because his schedule wouldn't allow it, but I never heard him complain. He did what needed to be done without a "What about me" attitude, and for that I respect him.

Program Goals - By enrolling into your program I hope to gain the knowledge and the skills to be a superior IT employee. To find a secure job in the IT field with a company that is dedicated to it's overall goals as well as it's employees. I also believe that the IT field is ever expanding at what seems to be a ridiculous rate, which is why I would love to enter the field and acquire as much knowledge as i can.

5 Year Plan - I no doubt see myself in the IT field. I feel if I get my foot in the door now, in 5 years I'll be well on my way to becoming a Senior IT professional. At a company that has a specific goal in mind with the means and employees to get them there. In five years I see my knowledge of the field being 2-3 times what it will be in a year from now. As it is ever evolving at what seems to be a daily basis.

Humphrey W. of Saint Petersburg, FL - 12/13/11

About Me - I am a recent graduate of ITT Technical Institute, Tallahassee Campus, with an Associates Degree in Computer Networking Sysems. I graduated high school in 1994 and wanted to attend ITT Technical, however the closest campus was too far away. I think it was destiny that I attend ITT Tech because a new campus was opened while I was living in Tallahassee, and amazingly I was one of the first to register. I think it was coincidental that I even saw the sign, kind of hidden off the road if you weren't paying attention, but now I feel as though it was by design. I am the proud father of two young boys, ages 5 and 2. I went to school to obtain my Master Barber's lisence so that I could maintain a flexible work schedule while I continued my education. Everything has worked out for me, and I couldn't be prouder of what I have accomplished. I am ready to dive into the information technology and absorb and contribute as much as I can to the Industry.

Life Inspiration - I was fortunate enough, many years ago, to meet a gentleman by the name of Jerry White. Mr White was a very articulate and intelligent man. He taught meaningful lessons about life with the simplest methods. The most memorable thing he taught me was focus. One day he asked me to focus on a tiny spot located on a wall. Immediately after asking me to focus on that spot, he yells, "Aww man look at that there!" Of course I turned to see what he was talking about, and he immediately told me that I had failed to focus. I learned that no matter what may be taking place around you, you must stay focused. He also taught me that the mind is the most powerful tool one can have. If you lose your mind, you have the potential to lose everything else in life.

Program Goals - I would hope to achieve thorough knowledge of Cisco products as well as how to setup, troubleshoot, and network these products. I expect in-depth and accurate training. This program will allow me to receive the proper skills and training needed to help advance my career, but with Cisco's seal-of-approval.

5 Year Plan - In five years I would like to have learned as much as I can about networking administration. I would like to have received as many certifications as I possibly can within the next five years. Information Tecnology is now my career, and within five years, I hope I will have made some impact, whether the impact be big or small, within my field. I would like to secure a job with a technology savvy company, or learn the necessary skills to maybe provide excellent service on my own. I have a plan to buy house within five years in order to provide my children with a stable environment.

Corrie B. of Montoursville, PA - 12/13/11

About Me - I hold an AS in EET, a BS in Business Management, and have 4 classes remaining to complete my MBA. Recently my husband and I completed a Mastering Project Management Program (PMP exam prep was included). I was laid off in January of 2009, have been looking for work since that time and have been unable to find a position that will allow me to add value to my experience and enough income to my family to make working worthwhile. My areas of experience include retail (management), restaurant (management), legal, sales (management), IT (management), and manufacturing (management). I am currently looking (still looking) to re-enter the workforce and continue on my career path of becoming an executive prior to my retirement many years from now. Working for a company, organization, or myself are all options I am considering and working from (or out of) my home or working in a traditional environment are also points of contemplation.

Life Inspiration - My most inspirational moment has come from a few different places. Steven Covey and Steve Jobs being the ones who really inspired the "ah ha" moment. Steven Covey's training program that I attended in the mid 1990's pushed me to be better organized, set long term goals, and better interact with upper level management. My inspiration from Steve Jobs comes from his many presentations where he always states "anything is possible, if you believe". Both are/were brilliant men and have pushed me to find my inner muse, follow my dreams, and continue my education (and learning) throughout life (both formalized and life lessons).

Program Goals - I would love to be able to re-enter the job market, make a satisfactory income in a position that will allow for growth and development. Your program seems to be an opportunity for me to expand my education, credentials, and potentially open my own business. With the PMP classes behind me, it seems that many of the positions require an IT background and your program will also provide the necessary training and education required to enter this area as well.

5 Year Plan - In 5 years I would like to be in a senior level management position and on track for an executive level position if I am employed by another organization. If I am self-employed, I see myself running a lucrative business and employing a minimum of 10 people.

Brandon D. of Charlotte, NC - 12/13/11

About Me - My name is Brandon Drayton, I am currently a Senior at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. My concentration of study is Software and Information Systems, and I have an enormous amount of interest in networking. The idea of connecting two different computer systems and sharing information between the two has always fascinated me. Upon reading this Intern opportunity I immediately knew that this was way for me to see my dreams of working in the computer networking field come true.

Life Inspiration - The most inspirational person in my life would be my older brother. He has always challenged me to do the best I can while enjoying it at the same time. He would always tell me that If I found a job that I considered to be fun, then I'd never have to work. I believe it was on this basis that my childhood as well as adulthood has been considerably easier for me than people looking from the outside in would think. I look at the positive aspects of all situations in life due to my brothers outlook, and until this day I am thankful for that.

Program Goals - I hope to gain a vast amount of knowledge from the program. I am very excited about learning the Cisco technology and being able to use this information in a productive manner. I have always been passionate about learning new technology, and networking is the field in which I am most interested in. I sternly believe that the hands on experience will allow me release my full potential as I put forth 100% of my efforts to be a valuable asset as a LAN WAN Professional.

5 Year Plan - Five years from now I see myself being an expert in the networking field. My plans are to work with a company gaining experience as well as studying during my off time to advance as much as I can. Though technology is constantly evolving, and I'll constantly have to stay current with present level of professionalism, I do believe with hard work and ambition that this goal is attainable within a 5 year time span. Once I have become a networking expert, I would like to stay in that position for as long as possible, as I believe this is where I am destined to be. Having a career as networking professional is where I see myself within the next 5 years.

Jumana A. of Dallas, TX - 12/12/11

About Me - I moved to USA nearly six years ago at the age of nineteen years with big hopes and dreams. At that point, USA seemed like a whole new world for me to explore and discover. From trying my way around different fields of study, to exploring different states, and working different jobs, I learned a lot of new things in life. Now, nearly six years later I have a bachelors degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Texas at Dallas and a job at GE Energy as a Component Engineer. Come Spring 2012, I will be starting my Masters in Management Information Systems, the next stage in my long term career goals.

Life Inspiration - I am currently employed by GE Energy as a component Engineer. My specific job requires me to manage components and their parametric data in a database. Currently the company is migrating from Matrix to WindChill database and I am involved in the integration and data transfer of Components. This job, allowed me to apply my engineering knowledge to validate, correct and check parametric data of all the components bought by the company and it also allowed me to work in a cross functional team and introduced me to the world of IT. I started working on IT projects and although I had no training or experience, I was able to complete all the projects that came my way with help from my peers. This is where my curiosity and interest in the IT world began. With time, and as months went by, I started looking forward to more challenges from IT and when the time to pick my masters came, I knew exactly what I wanted. This internship was highly inspirational to me, and a real eye opener when it came to choosing a career. Academically, I find it a relief to have been able to find the direction I want to go in. During my undergraduate degree, I came across a few classes that were out of my area of interest and some that interested me very much. With this contradiction, I made several academic mistakes, but viewed it as a learning curve. I believe if not for each experience, I would not have been able to reach where I am today. With a degree in MIS, I will be able to combine the rare combination of Engineering with IT and management and this will give me a very big space to grow and become a successful career woman.

Program Goals - The main purpose of this program, is to learn. By learning, I do not only mean in technical terms. Learning technical material will be a huge part of this internship, but along with that, I hope to learn things like working in a professional environment, working with a team, all of which will lead to one purpose; that of me becoming a successful career woman in future.

5 Year Plan - In five years, I see myself working a job that I love. With an undergraduate in Electrical Engineering and a job in Engineering, I realized that though the field was highly profitable, the work was not giving me 100% satisfaction. With a change of major, and going into the IT field, I hope to see myself successfully working at a company and striving within my department to serve better and to become more successful and knowledgeable with the help of my peers and work experience.

Matthew S. of Liberty, MO - 12/12/11

About Me - I am a hard worker who is interested in becoming a IT professional. I enjoy working with computers and I especially enjoy working with networks. I find them to be a challenge and I enjoy overcoming said challenges. I am a problem solver at heart, and I love to learn. In fact, I pride myself in my vast amount of somewhat useless knowledge. But I also like the process of learning something new, it is very rewarding when it is all said and done. I enjoy the things that most young adult males like, such as video games, movies, and technology. I spend most of my time studying, but I also understand that studying constantly can be hard on the mind. I am a fast learner and I pick up on things very quickly. It sounds like I am writing from a script but I really do enjoy learning new things, I am a bit strange in that regard but I also appreciate the people that teach me, without them the opportunity to learn would have never existed.

Life Inspiration - My father, he has always been something of an idol to me for reasons that are kind of cliche. Nonetheless, he is the best father a boy could ask for. A couple of years ago, my father was laid off from Sprint. My family took a toll that has still to this day never fully been repaid. But my father has the strength to to do what had to be done. So he took an 80% pay cut to become a janitor at a local school. I could see what it was doing to him and my mother but he said that it was what needed to be done. A year later, he finds a job doing consulting work with Ericsson, and luckily 6 moths later he was hired on as permanent staff in their roaming department. I know the story seem really cliche, but it is the truth. He did what had to be done, so that his family could eat and sleep in a warm bed. He has taught me that there will always be things in your life that you will not want to do, but if you want to enjoy the things the you do want to do then you better do them. But most of all, he taught me to never stop; never stop, and never give up.

Program Goals - My hope is that I will acquire the necessary skills to become successful in Information Technology. I want to be the best as I can possibly be, and I believe that this program can give me that. I have no field experience, I have lab experience but employers are always looking for real world experience. So it makes it very difficult to find employment; but your program grants entry into a field that is fast paced and hard to get into. Programs like yours are few and far between, and its because of you people like me are given a chance. Thank You.

5 Year Plan - I see myself, working. But not just working; I have always been aware that once I became an IT professional that my education would never stop. In those regards, I see myself continuing my education trying to better myself in every way I can. Certifications are crucial in this field and I hope to acquire more along my career. I see myself not stopping, a lot of people just stop when they get comfortable, but they end up losing valuable time in the pursuit of something that can be infinitely more rewarding. Just because I will have a job, does not mean I should get comfortable and quit learning and quit trying. I would have gotten that job based on some sort of criteria set forth, but that criteria is always changing and I hope that my willingness to learn and drive to succeed will grant me the reward of a satisfying life.

Jon M. of Belton, MI - 12/12/11

About Me - Born in California, my parents moved our family of five around a lot. By the time I was in 3rd grade, we landed in Montana where we stayed awhile. My 9th birthday I had received my first computer, this was 1983. The computer was a Radio Shack TRS-80. I would lock myself in my room and learn this computer inside and out. I could program basic language relatively fluently by 10 years old and also understood the concept of transferring data to tape or diskette. I made programs for my father's business that mimicked the program on his NCR computers at work in case they went down. I was the kid in school that would get his work done faster than the rest just to be able to work on the Apple IIe computers that we had in school and then teach the other kids how to use them...sometimes the teachers too. This excelled interest & learning helped me get into G.A.T.E.(Gifted And Talented Education). In GATE we would work on problem solving, helping other kids that had trouble learning conventionally, and allowed me to interview local politicians. After high school, I went into satellite technology and stayed with it as it has advanced. Technology is forever changing and I believe that I possess the ability to understand it and change with it as it is exciting to me.

Life Inspiration - I look up to people like Steve Jobs of Apple and Charlie Ergen of Dish Network. These people were simply working in a field of their specific technology and envisioned ideas to make it better. They had to take risks and stick with their resolve to achieve the goals set out by themselves and then to their public. When someone comes from 'nothing' and then becomes a huge 'something', that, to me is success!

Program Goals - I hope to not only receive training in this technology, but to better understand it. I have my own understanding of how things work, but formal training would broaden my horizons and give me a level of understanding that I hope it to catapult me into an advanced state of learning so as achieve the career in computers/technology that I have desired.

5 Year Plan - In 5 years, I can see myself implementing ideas that I've had. Ideas are simply ideas, and to think I'm the only one to have these unique ideas would be absurd. In order to be the first one to market, bring to light, or implement one's ideas, it's a valuable tool or asset to have training in order to see them come to life. And to do this before another and have one's ideas be unique, well that's all about timing. It's MY time and this is now.

Ashley M. of Upper Marlboro, MD - 12/07/11

About Me - My name is Ashley Munnelyn and I am currently a senior Computer Science major at North Carolina A&T State University from Upper Marlboro, Maryland. I participate in numerous activities such as the National Society of Black Engineers, The Society of Women Engineers, as well as a social hometown organization on our campus. In my spare time, I also like to write poetry and sing. I am a very hard worker and a good team leader in any task brought in front of me. I try my best to analyze each situation and make cautious yet efficient decisions that will benefit me and the people around me.

Life Inspiration - The most inspirational person in my life is my mother because she is just that, my mother. Since I was a little girl, she's always encouraged me to be the very best person I could be and to go for my dreams no matter how big or small. She is also my role model because she is loving and caring; she is a strong woman in her family and wants everyone to feel the love and dreams that she has for each individual.

Program Goals - In applying for this internship, I hope to expand my education in computers a little further outside the classroom. I also want to apply the things that I've learned, skills that I obtain, and leadership qualities into the business world and implement them to the best of my abilities. Although I may not have too much knowledge on the subject matter, I am quick on my feet and have an eagerness to learn new things.

5 Year Plan - In 5 years, after receiving my Bachelors degree in Computer Science and also continuing my education to receive my Masters degree in Computer Science as well, I see myself as successful software analyst in a private sector of a big prestigious company. Not only that, I do see myself as a wonderful wife and in the mere future a good mother as well.

Beverly L. of Marrietta , GA - 12/07/11

About Me - Hello, my name is Beverly Livers, I am a veteran Information System Administrator who takes the upmost attention and detail to resolving many Information Technology issues. Most of my career, I worked with Fast Ethernet systems as system administrator servicing SCO UNIX and Solaris deployments. It is true I do take my career to the next level of success and get the most in being the best at what we do. I moved to Atlanta area in hopes of pushing my skills to another level and found this wonderful opportunity.

Life Inspiration - My was inspired by Mr. Steve Jobs, who was the founder of America Online. I started in Information Technology when I worked for Mr. Steve Jobs and became more and more interested in the equipment I was using, when AOL first began as Qlink. After five months I moved on the training new employees on the Apple computer systems for our users, used to connect to the service. I trained new employees on a Strasus mainframe and thought then it was the ultimate machine. I just graduated from Kaplan University and finish my degree in Computer Science and Network Administration. I have worked with Cisco routers with an organizational contract, Department of Education in Baltimore, Maryland.

Program Goals - In knowing Cisco routers, in which, I have had some experience, I would like to know and learn much more being I am mechanical person. I thrive on learning and achieving my goals to resolve issues and to be the best professional technician on the market. I feel this would be the perfect opportunity for me to take my career to the next higher level.

5 Year Plan - Five years from now I will be a Cisco administrator if given the opportunity and working for your company building and servicing the best network for your clients, users and exercising through this intership your companys mission. I also desire returning to Kaplan University to complete my Bachelor of Art Degree in Computer Science and Network Administration.

Carl H. of Raleigh, NC - 12/06/11

About Me - My name is Carl Hewitt. I am graduate of Auburn University with an undergraduate degree in mathematics. I am interested in an IT career and have been taking steps towards this goal. I have recently passed the CompTIA A+ exam and will continue with their Network+ exam before continuing my studies for the CCNA. I am new to the Raleigh, NC area and hope that the technology present here can help jumpstart my career. I have worked several different types of jobs while studying at Auburn. Currently, I am working as a Geek Squad computer tech at Best Buy. I got the job in hopes that it would let me further my understanding personal computers and help me apply the lessons that I have learned while studying for the A+ exam. Also, I want this experience to show potential employers that I do have the knowledge required in helpdesk support positions and that I am comfortable helping customers resolve their computer-related problems. I have touched base with several IT recruiters in the area and am constantly looking for an opportunity to get my foot in the door so that I can start my career.

Life Inspiration - My mother is the most inspirational person or thing to me and is the reason that I want to try my best at whatever it is I am doing so that I can make her proud of me. Her work ethic inspires me. In her twenty years at her job, she has never called in sick. This is the type of worker that I aspire to be. She did everything to ensure that I would be successful and until I achieve this status I will never be happy with where I am at in my life. That is the reason that I take my career very seriously and why it is so important to me.

Program Goals - I would like to learn the fundamental principles in networking so that I could not only pass the CCNA certification but also so that I could apply these principles at my job. I do not want to just earn the certification for me to have on my resume. I want to have a very firm grasp of the concepts so that I could continue to pursue higher certifications from Cisco. I would also hope that the program could help me market my abilities to potential employers so that I could begin a new career as a network engineer.

5 Year Plan - In five years, I hope to be established in my position and career. To me this means that I have the skills necessary to be a very valuable employee that is desired by many employers. I would hope that I would be studying for my CCNP or have already obtained it. In the future, I want to be at a management or administrative position or a consultant or at least moving in that direction.

Nantalie R. of Gotha, FL - 12/06/11

About Me - I worked in the IT field for over 20 years during my employment with AT&T. I started with the company in 1982 as a Clerk Typist and continued to advance moving in to more technical positions. I have successfully performed as a: Helpdesk Analyst, Unix System Administrator, Print, Data and Control Center Supervisor, Quality and Process Improvement Specialist, Service Manager, Server Capacity Planner, Situation Manager, and managing data center new installations, removals and consolidations. I have experience working with all levels of management and interfacing with technical teams. Additionally, I have experience in change management, data center security, vendor management, procurement, inventory and equipment leases. Personally, I have continued to build and maintain desktop PC’s and Laptops for myself, close friends and family members. I accepted an early retirement offer in 2005 mainly due to encourage by management based on how the pending merger may impact me due to my many years with the company. Since that time I have been unable to secure full time employment.

Life Inspiration - This is a tough question for me for I was taught at a very early age by my grandmother to find inspiration from all things in life. She taught me that all things in life happen for a reason. It will be to teach you to do something or, to teach you not to do something. She said that “every person you meet in life and every event has something to teach you…be patient…look for the lesson and learn it well…persevere and never, ever give up on your dreams.” “Be thankful for each day that comes…see it as a gift from God and, treat it as the same. My grandmother is now 93 years old and has always been my very best friend. Thanks for asking.

Program Goals - The opportunity to kick start a new, exciting and challenging career that offers me the opportunity not only to use skills I already have but, to gain new skills and enhance knowledge. I also look forward to the opportunity to rebuild my financial life and, once again being able to sufficiently provide for myself.

5 Year Plan - Hopefully, still gainfully employed for the previous 5 years and continuing to learn, develop and apply new skills and knowledge. I hope to be financially secure and to have rebuilt my retirement savings so that one day I can truly retire.

Joffin S. of virginia beach, VI - 12/06/11

About Me - I am a graduate in Bachelor of Technology in Electronics and Communication Engineering. My career has been characterized by my ability to work well with diverse teams. This collaboration and communication is what has enabled me to achieve success in my department. People are the most valuable resource of any organization.I have achieved success in my career because I have been focused on the bottom line. Regardless of the task or challenge, I always established benchmarks of performance and standards of excellence.

Life Inspiration - The most inspirational moment is when I was in India. I saw a poor homeless boy trying to find some food for his sister on the streets begging. He was about 15 years old and was holding a little girl of about 10 yrs old. I helped them buy some food. But the most inspiring part is that when I saw him sparing his part of the food also to his little sister and feeding her. Seeing there affection, love and smile made me help more people as I could. Everyone can make some SMILES in other lives at least for a moment.

Program Goals - To broaden my knowledge in LAN/WAN support which will enable me to get expertise in my core field of network engineering. by completing the training, I can join a strong team and have a positive impact. I can work for the success of the organization while being resourceful and innovative.

5 Year Plan - I have hopes of taking on new challenges and advancing my career when it’s appropriate. However, I’m focused on the job at hand, and the pace that any advancement happens will be determined by whether I’ve earned it or not. If I perform beyond the company’s expectations for as long as I’m needed in the current role, I would hope there will eventually be opportunities to grow in the organization

Paul O. of Benicia, CA - 12/06/11

About Me - I have 20+ years of engineering experience in the telecom industry including fiber optics, cellular telephone networks, SONET and microwave systems. This includes significant hands-on experience with ADMs, DACS's and cellular switch (MSC) programming. During this time I either designed databases for circuit tracking or developed SQL reports to extract detailed information from existing databases (Oracle/MySQL). In the past 3 years I have been involved in the engineering of telemetry TCP/IP networks for a combination fiber/microwave network as well as microwave radios with native ethernet capability up to 1Gbps and DWDM equipment up to 10Gbps.

Life Inspiration - Moment: There's a story in the Bible when a Roman officer asks Jesus Chist to heal his servant. Jesus says that he will accompany the officer to his house to heal the servant. The officer tells Jesus that he is not good enough for Christ to enter his house, but the officer knows what it is like to be under authority and to have men under his command. If he gives and order it is followed. The officer says he knows that all Jesus has to do is "speak a word" and it will be done. Jesus states to all people around him that He has never found a man of such faith. He then tells the officer to return home, his servant is healed. I find it amazing that a Roman officer who probably had a lot of power would be the one to impress Jesus with his faith.

Program Goals - I am hoping to expand upon my existing LAN/WAN knowledgebase to acquire a CCNA that will lead to a position in the data industry. While a have significant quantifiable experience in the telecom industry, no previous position has allowed me to officially "migrate" over to the IT/Data portion of the business. So my experience with CISCO routers, IP networks, and data interconnectivity was out of my own desire to understand how that technology interfaced with the telecom portion. However, since telecommunications is being merged with (if not replaced by) datacom, it is obvious to me that I need to acquire a set of certifiable data skills to continue my career, which I enjoy immensely.

5 Year Plan - In 5 years, I would like to be in a position engineering and optimizing large data networks. These might include cellular 4G LTE networks, university networks, e-commerce or banking systems, or any number of businesses or services that may not even exist today. I would hope to have acquired additional certifications, among them: CCNP/CCIE, MCSE, ORACLE DBA as well as certifications in Java, Perl, PHP, and MySQL. While certifying in ALL of these in 5 years may not be possible, this list DOES include where my interests lie.

ANASTASIOS A. of West Orange, NE - 12/04/11

About Me - I am a recent graduate of Rutgers University with a Bachelor's of Science in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering and with a concentration in Energy Systems. Having some design experience in the field, I enjoy working with various software programs including Pro/Engineer, MATLAB, LabVIEW, Gatecycle 6.0, and others. My concentration in Energy Systems includes knowledge in Alternative Energy and Power Plants. I love learning exciting new things in the tech industry and find it fascinating how much technology never ceases to progress. In addition to my academic career, I am multilingual; I speak fluent English, Greek, and Spanish. I am a mature and autonomous individual with a strong drive to work and am excited at this opportunity.

Life Inspiration - Professor Rossman was my Compressible Fluid Dynamics lecturer at Rutgers. He came to class everyday excited and motivated to capture each students' attention to teach us about supersonic flow, supersonic aircraft, nozzling, shockwaves, and military applications. Being one of the only professors I had that really cared about his students, he would constantly pass out surveys on how he could improve our experience in the class and actually applied the survey responses directly in class. I have modeled myself after him; the mantra of constantly wanting to constantly improve is a philosophy that I have adopted to further my skills and abilities. I believe no person should ever want to do a mediocre job; one must perform his/her best at all times.

Program Goals - Being a Mechanical Engineer, my expertise is not in the Information Technology field. Through this internship, I hope to learn as much as I can about the IT field as it has grown tremendously (again) in the past couple years. As one of my high school mathematics teachers said, 'It is important in life to gather as many arrows in your quiver as possible.' The skills I would learn through the program will without a doubt be important in my future, whether it be in the IT field, or as a Mechanical Engineer.

5 Year Plan - In 5 years I see myself having found my niche as a seasoned mid-level going on to senior-level engineer overseeing entry-level engineers and using my creative skills to advance the firm I would be working for. I also hope to obtain a Masters degree in Mechanical Engineering because I feel that this field is endless and I have only scratched the surface so far in my career.

Jason W. of Prattville, AL - 11/30/11

About Me - I am a person who has come to understand life, what it offers, and its purpose. Throughout the years of my career in information technology, I didn't understand life or its purpose. I was working primarily for self, ego, and money. Yes, I climbed the corporate ladder, yes I made good money, and yes I gained some great skills along the way. However, there was always something missing, something not just right. Finally, I walked away from my career in IT and went on a soul searching journey (a spiritual journey) to find out who I am and what I wanted out of life or at least the purpose of my life. This journey cost me jobs, references, and even a few "friends." All of which I would gladly give up again to become the person I am today. After much introspection (self study), I have come to realize that I have a natural talent in IT. This is a talent that I should put to good use instead of allowing it to waste away. As of today, I do free networking and IT work for local charities to enable children to have working computer labs. That is just a way for me to put my talent to good use instead of just using it to make money for self.

Life Inspiration - Gandhi is a person who is most inspirational to me. Gandhi led India to independence and inspired movements for civil rights and freedom across the world. What is most inspiring to me about him is that one person has the power to make changes that an entire nation could adopt or even the entire world. Gandhi, through his quotes of peace and non-violence, still impacts people all over the world today. "You must be the change you wish to see in the world." Gandhi

Program Goals - Other than the certifications, I want to expand my knowledge of networking and become a better Network Engineer. Get the skills necessary to troubleshoot complex networks, to program routing protocols like BGP and OSPF, and design and architect networks. Through my knowledge, I will become a better employee, work on more extensive projects, and ultimately lead to a higher income which I will use to continue helping charities that provide technologies and education to children.

5 Year Plan - In 5 years, I see my self being certified, a degree, and a Architect or designer position. Most likely in a position where I can mentor or teach others the what I have learned though study and hands on experience. Possibly on the board of some local charity that provides and teaches technology to children that aren't fortunate enough to have it.

Michael R. of Plantation, FL - 11/29/11

About Me - I am an well motivated young Information Technology Tech that wants to upgrade my knowledge. I am a graduate of Lockheed Martin and Pennsylvania Apprenticeship Information Technology Program. Also after my graduation I have worked full time with Lockheed Martin , an federal government contracting agency for 7 years. I have bee pursuing my degree in computer science. I have plenty of intrest in the technology field. I want my career to be in this field. I have very good skills with the computer and am very motivated to learn as much as possible to advance my career and my future.

Life Inspiration - My most inspiration moment is at my IT apprenticeship graduation. When I was chosen out of 20 student to speak in front of the whole audience and tell the about my experience and my accomplishment that i meet through the program . I felt so proud of my self to be able to speak in front of 200 people and have them look to me as an inspiration for the next group of apprentices coming to the program. It made me feel like I was on top of the world and there was nothing i couldn't accomplish. My mother and older brother was in attendance attendance attendance she was crying cause she was so proud of me so that made me even inspired. That was my most inspirational moment of my life so far.

Program Goals - What I hope to get out of this program is the ability to understand the LAN/WAN technology. I have basic understanding of networking and would love to expand my knowledge in this area. I have completed a program to become Information Technology Tech through an IT apprenticeship with Lockheed Martin with flying colors because when I do some thing I give it my all. Im sure if i'm able to be apart of this program, I will give my 100% effort and make my mentors and instructors proud.

5 Year Plan - In 5 years I see my self graduated from college with my degree in computer science or information Technology. Starting my career in a major great company, and furthering my education to my masters. I see my self as independent with the knowledge to have my services wanted in any company. Also I see my self successful in meeting my goals that i have set for my self at my current current current of mind. I also see my self beginning to buy my own house and start my investment towards my future.

Keneth M. of Caddo Mills, TE - 11/29/11

About Me - I am a seasoned, hands-on, manager with experience working alongside and directing individuals and teams constructing and completing various construction projects in varying industries throughout the U.S. In addition to the equipment, buildings, and refineries I been involved with building; I have constructed cellular towers and sites, built and loaded regen sites, and installed fiber for several years. I was a Nortel certified OC3, 48, and 192 network engineer and really enjoyed the challenge of the work. I am looking forward to getting back into telecom and the future it holds.

Life Inspiration - My wife is my greatest inspiration, followed closely by my five sons. She stands behind and beside me through whatever life throws at us. She believes, and does not hesitate to pronounce that I can do almost anything. Her belief in me inspires greatness. My boys (13-22yrs old) think that I am Superman and so I strive to be. The most time and joy we have had together is while I was working in the field of telecommunications, I believe it’s time to get back to it.

Program Goals - I will get the educational credentials that I currently lack as well the knowledge base that I will need to perform the work required by an employment position. In addition, the program will catch me up on all the advances made in the industry since after I left it. Finally, I hope to get assistance and direction for employment upon completion of the program.

5 Year Plan - Making the assumption that I am accepted into the program, I see myself as Director or Senior Director of engineering with a solid company like Cisco, Nortel, or Qwest within the next five years. Shortly thereafter, graduating with a master’s of business in preparation for my next promotion.

Robin L. of Parkville, MD - 11/28/11

About Me - I have 5+ years experience as a network administrator subcontractor for Lockheed Martin. This contract started as a three month temporary position. Because of persistence and patience, it evolved into a long term hands-on highly visible position where I continued to take on more and more responsibility so that upper management recognized that I had the skills and the drive to make the company very profitable during that time period. Unfortunately due to budget cuts and changes in management personnel, the contract ended. I've been trying to re-enter the IT field ever since.

Life Inspiration - This was good. I was listening in on a tele-conference call one day, and when all the usual business had been attended to, the spokesperson leading the call asked if anyone had any questions. That's when I spoke up over the line (keep in mind I had only been there maybe 6 months and most folks didn't know who I was because I was located in a satellite office). One of the topics of the meeting was the new SLA agreement (SLA stands for Service Labor Agreement). The SLA was the new platform for which Lockheed had to perform if it wanted to get paid for services rendered. To make matters worse, our team was responsible for one of the new SLA's and our team leader had just resigned. My question directly pointed to this blatant challenge to our SMS team. The response was "caller...identify yourself." When I did so someone in the meeting recognized my name and said he was on the SMS team, which they all knew was a crucial component to meeting these new challenges. They immediately put me on the spot and asked if I felt that I could handle the pressure of being responsibe for the teams actions in meeting the SLA's until they could fill the position. I hesitated briefly and stated that I believed I could but I needed management to tell me exactly what was to be expected of me. They agreed and I was placed in charge temporarily for about a month before they hired someone. During that time frame I was successful in meeting all requirements. As history would have it, the person they eventually hired became too pessimistic about doing the work and was especially gruff during tele-conference calls. Management came to me some time later and said they wanted me to take over and that was very rewarding to me as I had carefully prepared myself for that possibility.

Program Goals - When I was in the process of obtaining my MCSE, I specifically recall a fellow examinee who was trying to get his CCNA. I happened to be taking one of the 7 exams required for Microsoft. After completing my exam and passing, I just happened to be outside when he exited the exam room. I asked casually how he did and he said he failed. We spoke of the cost and it cost him $300. My exam was $110. I thought that was excessive at the time but I wasn't aware of the opportunities either. I now feel that I have the presence of mind and the confidence to not only pass the course but also be successful in the field mainly because I've done it before and very much welcome the opportunity to advance myself into a new arena.

5 Year Plan - It took me less than two years in my last position to go from LAN Admin to team leader of the SMS administrators group. That was basically with no experience other than my Microsoft training. I picked the brains of the senior members in the office, always asked questions when I didn't understand, and day by day trained and developed my troubleshooting skills in every area that management needed answers. After three years I was team leader of the SMS group and point liason between the client (HUD) and upper managers at Lockheed. I had acquired their trust because I had been successful in maintaining the network which satisfied the SLA agreement we were working under with HUD and that allowed to managers to acquire added bonuses. So I feel very confident that with dedication and some help opening the door, I can again be successful in teaching myself all about Cisco to the point where I can be a leader and problem solver in a team environment.

Aaron S. of Salt Lake City, UT - 11/26/11

About Me - My name is Aaron. I am from St Louis, MO, but was raised in a small town of about 4 thousand called Beebe, Arkansas. Since I was around 7 or so I have had my own computer that I have been constantly breaking and fixing. I have taken all the computer classes offered in High school and even found myself out of class often roaming the halls fixing my teacher's issues. I attended college there in Beebe and had dropped out due to some private issues 1 semester shy of completing the course that taught the CCNA. I have always had a strong draw and aptitude towards computers and the networking field in general. Generally, I wont to work for myself or for a small like minded group of thinkers. I hope this is enough information about me that you need to make a fair assessment.

Life Inspiration - Most inspirational thing/person is myself. Over the past few years, by the journey I have been living and also due to things happening in my life, I have realized the human minds potential and ability to complete any task set before it. Knowing what I want and having the tools to achieve that goal inspire me greatly in obtaining my current goals. So I find as much inspiration as I need in myself.

Program Goals - I hope to gain knowledge and understanding that I can use and apply in the workforce. I would like to be able to complete this program and not have to worry about going back to school at least for a few years. I know the computer field is always changing and growing, so I accept and look forward to having to constantly learn new things. I would also like to meet like minded people through this program.

5 Year Plan - I see myself working for myself doing consulting or working on yet another degree to further my knowledge in whatever field I am working in at the time. I would like to use the knowledge and understanding to help other people that are interested get into a field they enjoy working in.

Jason I. of Virginia Beach, VA - 11/24/11

About Me - My name is Jason Ivy. I am an intern at Tidewater Community College (TCC) in Virginia Beach, Virginia. I currently work for the Office of Information Systems (OIS), which is TCC’s IT department. I was accepted into this position after recognition of my work as a member of TCC’s computer club, which fixes and rebuilds computers and gives them to students in need, who cannot afford one of their own. It is my hope to move on from here into the field of Network Security. I worked at the TCC computer club from 2009 to 2011. During my time here, I worked with a team on refurbishing donated computer equipment. Much of these donated goods were derelict, sometimes from as old as 2000. It was often difficult to get these old PCs functioning again, but through combining parts from different machines, we managed to get working machines that were then reimaged, given Office 2003 and antivirus software. These PCs were then given to students who needed one for classes and were unable to afford one. To date they have given away over 700 PCs to students in need. Also among my duties were maintaining our equipment and managing the applications we received for computers. Before I left for OIS, I trained several people in my functions so they could perform in my stead. After hearing about my hard work at the computer club, I was given an offer to work as an intern for OIS. This has been an amazing opportunity for me. I worked with three members of OIS’s face to face IT team. Together we personally maintained over 1,500 computers and peripherals for the 400+ faculty and staff that work at the Virginia Beach campus. We address a wide range of issues, everything from hardware malfunctions to software installations to viruses. It has been during my work and studies here that I have come to realize that network security is the field for me. Between helping club members harden PCs against threats with proper updates and antivirus, and ridding infected faculty PCs at OIS of their malware, I am realizing how important and opportunistic this area is. The world needs people both willing and capable of protecting computer systems against threats of all kinds, and I feel that with this grant, combined with my desire to better my IT security knowledge, I can break into the field of network security and dedicate my energy and self towards protecting people from threats that they may not even know exist.

Life Inspiration - The most inspirational person I can think of is Bass Reeves. Bass Reeves was one of 200 Deputy U.S. Marshal hired in 1875. Bass Reeves could speak many Indian languages and he also knew the Indian Territory. He arrested 3000 felons one of those felons was his own son. During the entire time, Bass Reeves was never shot which is unbelievable. He is a person who shows determination and dedication to his personal convictions to complete what was asked of him. He is an inspiration to me because I am also dedication and determined to complete all my desires.

Program Goals - I Jason Ivy, hope through this program I will be able to obtain a mentor in the IT field; who will teach me, help me understand and train me to be able to be an asset to the company or business I will work for in the future. I also hope to obtain my certifications which will prove I am fully capable to do what is asked of me or teach someone else how to do what is asked of them.

5 Year Plan - That is an excellent question. In five years I see myself working for a company or business in their IT department. I plan to from this point on to complete the 24 months LAN/WAN Internship and Training Program and obtain my certifications. I will from that point gain two to three yrs of experience and pursue becoming an IT consultant.

Gerald T. of Shirley, NY - 11/19/11

About Me - I am a 34 year old man who suffered a Traumatic Brain, due to the terrible car I got into at the age of twentyfive. As a result of this accident, I had to relearn many aspects of life, that most people take for granted, through both out-patient and in-patient rehab. With the advice of my rehabilitation therapists, I decided to go back to college. At first this was very hard, but I persisted and eventually graduated with a associates in Applied Science from Suffolk Community College, and a bachelors in Construction Manangement from Farmingdale State College. Therefore, I ready to work even harder in a carear that is affiliated with construction.

Life Inspiration - My most inspirational moment is my completion of rehab, because I was filled with so much determination to succeed. For instance, I would not let myself fail, so I continued puah myelf, therefore, that allowed me to graduate with a 3.8 average from Suffolk Community College, and a 3.65 grade point average from farmingdale State College. Also, this moment has given me the confidence to want to continue learning, because I persisted my studies after college, so I can take my FE exam.

Program Goals - Obviously, I hope to gain more experience, because college has only provided me with a small portion of information that I need to understand about the construction indusrty. Also, I have school experience with computers, but I figure that this program can give me some real world experience. Additionally, I hope to gain more contacts in this industry, and I figure that this program can provide with a bridge to connect with other professionals.

5 Year Plan - In five years, I hope that I can still be working at the same job, because I plan on being an engineer, therefore, I need to be working in this field, so I can take and pass my PE exam. Also, I really enjoy many aspects of the construction field, but I don't know what apsect I like best. As a result, I figure that the experience I gain can only help me to decide what areas of construction that I would like to persue.

Guillermo S. of Pembroke Pines, FL - 11/19/11

About Me - Technically graduated with honor as an Electronic Engineer in 2001 in the first 10 between 500 students I started working in the telecom field for 2 years. Studied Management at the most recognized business College in Venezuela named IESA. Also recognized as a technology professional with demonstrated success in computer system/ network administration, field engineering and data communications. Intermediate skills on implementation, analysis, optimization, troubleshooting and documentation of LAN/WAN Networks Systems were acquired as well. Proven expertise and strong ability to increase reliability, maximize productivity, and introduce system efficiencies. Ability to lead and motivate project teams to ensure success. Track record for diagnosing problems and consistently delivering effective solutions. After 2 years in telecom business I got involved in sales business since then. Becoming a Partner Of Products&Muds, LLC by 2004 I started my own company with some investors which it was named INELECTRON which I ran with growing success until 2008 (Expropriated by the Government). After 2008 i was granted asylum in US, since then i started working in the restaurant business with great success and undiscovered talent on in hahaha funny but true... Now more established i want to develop what i was born for... Technology and solve problems.

Life Inspiration - One of the most inspirational moment of my life took place in 2008 when i left a very healthy life as a multiple company owner and i had to abandoned my country because of being a victim of persecution by the none recognized dictatorial government of Venezuela, and then found myself here in the most powerful country starting over, focused, working 20 hr a day and doing what i had to do, i am a man, working in 2 restaurants and at the same time i was being always the best server on both restaurant. That gave me the opportunity to pay all the debts in my country $140.000 in two years serving tables. Never complained, always keep going toward my goal i learned that what ever it takes, be determined with discipline, a lot of it.....!!, focused and obsessed about a goal here or in china i will fulfill. I learn that in the middle of the crises there is always a chance and you guys give me just a single shot and you will never be disappointed as well i will keep your name with proud in the networking world.

Program Goals - Having a degree will feel good. Getting a degree and know that I worked hard for it, that has validity that means something to me. While I am really fortunate and God has blessed me with a fair amount of intelligence, I will be around all of these people with intelligence. I am going to be an active member of one of the best growing career in a place that offers me comprehensive set of services that are designed to jumpstart my career in information technology. I will probably be offered an internship program, placement programs, and technical programs and also the career resources designed to get me immediate employment in my first quality information technology position.

5 Year Plan - In 5 years I see myself working for a company that I love and that values my expertise and experiences. I will be a valuable asset to this company because I will be a subject matter expert in my field of work. My goal of furthering my education, not only in the networking world, but the business world as well. I plan to achieve higher certifications (CCNP/CCIE) is crucial to my educational development.Financially hopefully making about $120,000. As an engineer I have many skills to offer. Network communications may as well be one of them.

Michael D. of Victorville, CA - 11/17/11

About Me - Hello! I am a 3rd year Bachelor's student at Western Governors University in the field of Information Security. I currently work a Help Desk/IT Technician job which I find very interesting, however, less than fulfilling. My focus is Network Administration and Security, (specifically the Cisco family of technologies), and I have obtained a CCNA and a CCNA-Security. I am very interested in furthering my education and certification tracks with Cisco.

Life Inspiration - My most inspirational moment came after my former Real Estate Appraisal business had to be closed. Rather than wallow in disappointment, I decided to plan for a new future. I went back to college with only my acquired computer knowledge, and now I have an entry-level IT position, a growing list of IT certifications, and an eagerness to be one of the best in the Networking/Network Security industry.

Program Goals - Knowledge, experience, and networking with peers. What more could I hope for? This program seems to be exactly what I was looking for. What I have found to be the most difficult challenge in breaking into the field of Cisco Related Careers, is that experience is hard to come by if you are a new candidate. I hope to gain the tools and hands-on experience that will enable me to obtain a great Network Administration position with a great starting salary.

5 Year Plan - Holding a CCIE would be nice. It is my goal to learn and absorb all that I can in the hopes of becoming a well established engineer. I hope to become an authority on all things Cisco and network security. I enjoy training, and would like to one day film my own series of instructional videos for Cisco technologies. In 5 years, I see myself with options, opportunities, and open-doors.

Justin S. of Las Vegas, NV - 11/17/11

About Me - I am a “Vegas baby”. I was born, raised, and am still living here. I love IT as a whole, from creating software, to setting up and connecting small data centers using ATM. I created my first “Hello World!” website at age 10. My fascination with IT progressed from there. I was programming in VB, Java, and JavaScript in middle school. I started playing around with Cisco switches, and routers in high school. When I’m not playing with technology, I am hanging out with friends. I love sports, exercising, and the outdoors. In the end, I am still a family man. I don’t have a wife or fiancé (yet), but I am in a serious relationship. She supports and encourages me in everything I do.

Life Inspiration - I really do have many people who have inspired me to move up in the world, including my education, and career. My dad is my most inspirational person. I don’t know where to begin. He knows SO much about the IT field. He knows “a lot about a lot”. I would be lucky if I was able to learn half of what he knows. Anytime I have questions about anything I ask him. I’ve never found a problem that he couldn’t answer. I remember in middle school, I used to go into his office and read his books to learn more about technology and networking. There was a few things wrong with this: First, it was outdated and didn’t work on some of the programs I was making. Second, one time I was working on JavaScript and tried using some Perl, as you might have figured, it didn’t work. (I was reading a Perl programming book, and thought that all programming was the same.) Third, I didn’t ask, and got in trouble. (I never made that mistake again.) My grandma always said “You need to learn as much as you can from your dad”, and that is what I’m doing. He has taught me so much, more than any book can teach me. I know I haven’t been the model student, but I believe I’ve been getting better. When I learn something I think outside the box, no more tunnel vision. I really appreciate everything my dad has done for me.

Program Goals - I would love to be able to afford and receive Cisco certifications. I hope to advance my career, and education in the IT field. (Mainly networking engineering and security) I have some experience in this industry but would love to expand my knowledge. I want to learn more, and be the best I can be. I’m expecting this program to help me successfully pursue my dreams of working in the IT field, and being one of the top Network Engineers.

5 Year Plan - In five years I see myself as a Network Engineer/Administrator, or a President/VP of IT. If I don’t have my CCIE certifications, I’d like to be working on them. Even if not accepted in this program, I will pursue my dreams in IT. I’ll finish reading all the networking books that are in my library to make my dreams come true. I’d like to have a successful career that I can support my family with.

Ravion M. of seabrook, TX - 11/15/11

About Me - I'm a responsible young motivated father who has been intrigued with computers since a young age. While my friends were out playing football and playing video games I was in my room taking apart spare computers and putting them together different ways while teaching myself and learning at the same time. I've always been intrigued with electronics and computers in the way they communicate with each other so fast and how data and codes are sent and show up in different format rather then it looks. I have been working with my hands since the age of 18 out of high school and have been recently saving up to go to technical school, and have just about saved enough to pay for it. I recently found this internship and am in a jaw dropping statue and will cross my fingers hoping I get word back from Cisco. Ever since learning and teaching myself about the main basics of computers i have been repairing them for friends and friends of friends , family, work case scenarios etc. I have ran several networks, lans, home networks, and done work for local businesses as well. I'm looking forward to learn more about computers and networks and as technology progresses and my knowledge enhances.

Life Inspiration - My most inspirational moment was when I held my daughter for the first time and actually then realized I was a father. It only hit me then that I shall start running for victory instead of jogging or coasting. She is my inspiration and will always be the jump-start to courage and ability to enjoy every breath life has to offer.

Program Goals - I would like to gain not just knowledge but information that will help me in the future as well as present. I'm one to not just get an answer but find out why that answer is right and if there are possibilities for another answer or other ways instead of just one. In my wisdom of computers sometimes the way you fixed it last time doesn't mean it's the way to fix it now, there's so many options and reasons one thing may not be working and the other, it kinda reminds me of some pneumatic work i have done for a company recently, without one pneumatic wire working the other won't, same with computers you have to check everything in order to perfectly proceed with the correct next steps.

5 Year Plan - I don’t have a specific plan! I would like to advance. However, I am flexible. I will do my current job to the best of my ability and keep my eyes open for opportunities within the organization to advance even if it means changing roles. I am prepared to learn new things and contribute to the overall success of the organization in a number of ways. The only specific within that “plan of willingness” is that the opportunity be within my ability to learn, interesting enough for me to dig in and do a good job, and the compensation increase a reasonable amount in relation to the demands of the position.

Sean R. of Nashville, TN - 11/14/11

About Me - Well as you know my name is Sean Rutherford, and I am originally from Peoria, IL. I graduated in 2005 from high school and continued my education at Tennessee State University. There I took up Computer Science as a major. I recently graduated from Tennessee State in May of 2011. From there I have been exploring my options in the I.T. field and am currently seeking employment. I really enjoy basically everything technology related. I have been like that ever since I was very young and it has only increased as I got older.

Life Inspiration - My most inspirational moment is of recent. Graduating from college was the most life altering accomplishment for me. Graduating was so inspirational because it let me know that anything I really want to do and if put my mind to it and give it my all it can be accomplished. Walking across the stage was such an overwhelming experience, it made me feel on top of the world. It was such a an experience that was well worth it. Not everyone gets the oppurtunity to go and out of those who do get to go, not all of them graduate. I am very thankful to have the oppurtunity and even more blessed to finish. This is a true statement that hard work pays off.

Program Goals - This training will help me prosper and grow educationally. Receiving a CCNA will help me in attaining one of my goals in becoming a Network Administrator. In college one of my favorite course was Data Communication and Networking, so this is relevant in things I enjoy. Along with the education, it would be nice just to have the oppurtunity to experience a wonderful program like this. I wanted to go back to school and take classes in Network Security and PC Networking and become certified, but I have not yet done so for financial reasons. So this program would be an excellent oppurtunity for me to accomplish some of these goals.

5 Year Plan - In five years I plan on being stable financially. I will still be living in Nashville, TN, unless I am forced to move for other reasons like job relocation. I will be working in my field and will have at least two certifications and/or a Masters degree in Computer Science or related field. I love learning new technologies so I will have had continued my education in some way. Also I will gave back to community in some way, possibly by volunteering at my Alma Mater.

Christopher L. of chicago, IL - 11/12/11

About Me - I currently work at Metra, a commuter railroad in Chicago, as their tech support. I have been in the job for nearly 3 years, and before then I did contract work for Paradigm Technologies and then Comsyms now Manpower. The contract work I did were mainly computer deployments and upgrading bank teller equipment at various Bank of America locations in the Midwest. I got my BS degree at DeVry University in Computer Networking and Communications Technology Management and an Associates Degree from ITT Tech in Computer Networking Systems. I am a technology geek, but unfortunately I am one on a budget, and being newly married I have aquired additional debt and care for someone else (though she does run her own webside design company to supplement my own income)

Life Inspiration - My inspiration comes from my wife. She is 31, only recently got her Bachelors, and is running her own business just a month after graduating. She is pushing me to further my own education and to rise up above the current ditch I am in. A part of me fears that approaching 30 myself I will cease to be marketable; but then she nearly smacks me upside the head and reminds me that I have much more experience than others in their early 20's can offer, and with this program I will have even more experience to offer a company or a client.

Program Goals - I have spent 5 years doing computer deployment or help desk. It is way past time to move on from that, and move up to more complicated and higher paying positions. At DeVry I learned a great deal of Cisco technology, but again that was 5 years ago, and I have unfortunately gotten rusty (being that none of my current or past positions allowed me access to Cisco equipment). I am hoping to reclaim my knowledge of the systems as well as further develop myself in the networking field.

5 Year Plan - In five years I will be my own consultant, taking on my own clients, anywhere from private users to mid-size private companies. I will also have aquired my Master's degree and will be working along side my career as a consultant. Basically making myself valuable for as both a potential employee as well as a consultant to other companies.

Togba D. of Upper Darby, PA - 11/11/11

About Me - I am an IT professional who has been within the High-Tech enviroment for the past 28 years. I have had a tremendous amount of experience from the Silico Vallean Jose Bay Area in enviroments such as, Electronics manufacturing, production, R&D, Final Test, Computer Desktop support, Hardware and software Deployment and support, PC Refresh, System Integration, migration, Roll Outs and etc. I have done some troubleshooting to system aqnd component level with manufacturing companies in the Bay Area, Final Testing of computers at the time when there was no PCs.I do have s very strong passion for LAN/WAN Networking, so I decided to build a Home Lab for Cisco and Microsoft Windows. I do have a home Lab almost equivalent to a CCNP Lab.I do love this Technology so much, but I am locken the motivation to attemp this Test in some ways.It is difficult to find friends that are willing to study with you, and sometimes, I tend to drift from my studies. I am looking for something that will drive me over the hump, which is to take the Test. At this point, I believe the only thing that could help me accomplish this is a Boot Camp in some way. I believe if I can sit next to some other folks who are trying to reach the same goal, it will gave me a push. I have played with this Technology for over 10 years now with CCNA and CCNP Training, but have not attempted the test.I must admit too that, sometimes financial situations causes the demotivation, especially when you do not have a steady job that can allow you to put some money aside for the Test.I strongly believe that I do have the ambition and potential to accomplish this, but I do need some help, and I hope your organization would not mind giving me a little push. I believe that push is, the Financial part. I am willing to pay every penny towards this training if I can get started.I beg you to please help me. I can be fruitful after this training.I love CISCO Networking, and I believe I can be Good Network Engineer because of my passion for this. Thanks for listening.

Life Inspiration - The most inspirational person in my life was my Father. He was not rich or did not have much, but he always told me to focus on Education. My Dad never inter a classroom in his life, but he was always eager to try and find money for me to enter school. It was always his priority. This experience was in my home town of Ganta,Liberia West Africa.I believe, because he was denied that oppertunity as a young man living with different families, he wanted to make sure that I would not miss that oppertunity too.

Program Goals - I hope to be able to get the Specific Hands on training and concepts that will enable me to pass the CCNA and CCNP Exams. I need that closeness to an experience Cisco Trainer who can show me my weakness, and prepare me better for the Exams. I will also be happy if I can find a company that will be willing to give me all the real world hands on experience so as to grow and take on more responsibilities in LAN/WAN Networking enviroment.

5 Year Plan - I see myself working for an ISP or some company that is specialized in building a cooporate LAN/WAN Network for various cooperations. I see myself as a Network Engineer in the High-Tech enviroment or even teaching students what I have learned from LAN/WAN and the experiences from Internship and real world experience. I can see myself being a consultant, providing some sort of services to customers that need Computer Network connections.

Michael T. of Cypress, TE - 11/11/11

About Me - I have been involved in the technology for over 25 years starting in the world of television as a photographer and editor, I was doing internet before there was an internet when we were dialing up servers to play games and talk. I then became involved with the first launching of the cable industries high speed Internet with AT&T's @HOME, where I became more technical in home computing and networking. I then started my own business in the high speed wireless technology where I built a wireless system spanning several hundred square miles. I was then forced into learning about servers and routers (my first router Cisco 3600) which I became more server trained than router trained, while hiring router configuration services. I picked up some small parts of router configuration and have been wanting to continue. I am 48 years old and am now able to do more to advance myself in the IT proffession and am taking measures to become a key player in this industry.

Life Inspiration - I would say that the most inspirational moment for me would be when my grandfather gave me my first camera when I was 7 years old. I took that camera and became very good at taking pictures, being the school photographer, and later becoming the 1990 national video photographer of the year. That I feel was the pivital moment that if given the right tools i can do anything and that there is nothing to stop you in what you want in life.

Program Goals - I am hoping to get the training that I need to better become a vital part of any IT department. I am wanting to get into the oil and gas industry setting up complete networks for their communications divisions. I feel that my training and education needs to catch up with my experience and when that happens I will be able to be more marketable and get the great job that I am looking for.

5 Year Plan - I see myself as the project manager of a major communications system that has an ongoing building project with multiple technologies being developed and running at the same time. I have big plans and with me building my own WISP, I have learned that i can take on large projects and complete them with quality and in a timely manner.

James F. of Suffolk, VA - 11/11/11

About Me - I am a recent graduate of Devry University and a current student in Keller Graduate School of Management for a Master’s degree in Network and Communication Management with a concentration in security. I have 11+ years’ experience with computers and have created, maintained, troubleshot, and upgraded every computer systems and network at my local church for 9 years. Also, I’m a veteran of the US Navy with over 9 years of service as an Aviation Electronics Technician ending with an honorable discharge. Currently, I work as an engineering technician fabricating guided media and install networks. I really enjoy see and learning how the thing I build work and seeing them work the way they are supposed to work.

Life Inspiration - I love to help others. Things that I’ve found to be simple with computer are very hard for most people I help to understand. Most of the times I don’t charge for my help even if the problem is very time consuming and if I do charge, it’s very little. A good friend of mine owns a tiling and one of his clients, an elderly woman, was having a lot of trouble with her computer. She ran a day care in her home and needed her computer for a number of important functions. Needless to say, she was distraughtover this because there were a lot of pictures of her children and much more on the computer. He called me and asked me if I could take a look at it and I said sure. When I got there, I found that her compute was very old and full of adware and spyware. I when through the process of upgrading the computer and removing all the problem I identified over 2 days after work on the base. I used some of the components from my other computer for the upgrade. When I finished, I only charged her $40 and her eyes almost popped out of her head. She told me that others were going to charge her over $200. She was crying and very grateful because she could not afford those prices. I enjoy helping people and experiences like that are worth more than gold.

Program Goals - This generous training offered by LAN/WAN Professional will give me the opportunity to change career field. Even though I have experience work on computers and schooling to back it up from my A.A.S degree in Biomedical Equipment Technology, every job I’ve applied for wanted years of experience working in the IT field. I was in the Navy until 3 years ago and have not had the chance to work in this field. The IT field is my passion and this program will open the doors I could not.

5 Year Plan - In 5 years, I see myself doing what I’ve wanted to do for many, many years; working an IT job that offers challenges as a highly sought after specialist. I will have graduated with a Master degree in Networking and Communication Management and will continue to climb the ladder. Most of all, I will be doing what I love which is to use the knowledge I’ve learned and the wisdom I’ve gained to solve problems and help others.

Phuc D. of Virginia Beach, VI - 11/10/11

About Me - At the end of my second re-enlistment in the military I decided that it was time to pursue another career. I got out and attended school majoring in network security. As soon as I started school compTIA decided to change the policy on their certifications. After taking my network and security classes I got certified within two months. Due to some transfer credits I was able to finish in 1.5 years of school for my Applied Science Degree in Computer Network. One month after that I attended ECPI University and currently in school focusing on my Bachelor's of Science in Network security.

Life Inspiration - One of the most inspirational moments for me was when my Chief gave his speech on an incident that happened within our battalion. Through that incident and speech I learned what type of leader I working under. That feeling help made me more confident and more trusting of my shipmates. I need to know that my shipmates capable of completing certain task in hazardous duty zone. My last tour, I volunteered to go to Iraq. I wanted to make a difference. I wanted to be able to look back and said that I was there and I was a part of history.

Program Goals - I want to learn as much as I can in the networking field and ultimately be proficient at what I do. I want to be certified in CCNA. As an electrician for the last eight years I was not involved as much as I should have been in computers. The minute I went to school for IT, I realized my passion for what I used on a regular basis. The more I know the more I keep on wanting to know.

5 Year Plan - I see my self taking current exams and passing it to keep my CCNA certification valid. I expect myself to improve each year and retaining what I learned through out the years. I can see myself growing along with the company and most importantly being able to share my experiences with those who are intrigue with IT.

Ryan D. of Tucson, AZ - 11/10/11

About Me - As a middle school student I learned the DOS command line with my computer teacher. As a visual, hands-on and audio learner I constantly analyze the problem. I fit the .02% which can learn in there sleep. When I began working for Tyler Aaron I was fresh and had no previous knowledge of the construction field. I quickly adapted and supported the business. While with Tyler Aaron Enterprise our tasks ranged from managing remediation which migrated to the pre-wire of new and existing homes. This division also managed security camera and alarm system installations. Under the same business owner we formed a second business for swimming pool service and repair. This business required myself to identify, examine, assess, propagate and resolve any issues. When I began in the pool field the chemistry training began initially with little training. I was then forced to determine the means in which the management of the water would be simplest. I deduced through record the information for maintaining the water chemistry while accounting for whether and created proper planning charts for the problems that would arise each week. Standard scheduled week was 6-7 days at 80-120 stops a week. After my Blue Lagoon pool service tenure, I moved to work with Lewis Management(LMRI). While with LMRI I managed 300 condos in 14-16 acres. In combination with this I also managed the wiring, Radio frequency access cards, stock inventory, cleaning of all of the property(outside of owned Condo's). I discontinued work with this business in light of my much needed recovery from and injury compound by the industry. I began my college major in computer science, specific to engineering. I have nearly completed my associates and will begin a bacheolrs in 2012. In summary, I love to learn new things and find all the details about a subject and topic. In my everyday effort I strive to learn new technologies and understand new ways of using them. All the parts to each subject and each science has many parts. However, the use of those parts takes someone who can analyze the information from each angle and implement the technology in the manner needed.

Life Inspiration - My most inspirational moments are when I am surrounded by individuals who know their industry and work well with each other. The recovery that I went through for my structural repair of my spine and lower back gave me a new hope that I would not be paralyzed for the rest of my life. That I will still have the choice to make a difference in world and industry. The inspiration I have comes from the thrill of solving a problems and creating solutions. Specifically, When I begin to learn more about a subject, I have those around me that provide insight and patience to arriving epiphanies.

Program Goals - Gaining certification by the organization which creates the industry standard is my main goal. In hindsights view, I hope to gain the recognition of the industry standards(Cisco). I hope to learn and understand more implementation uses and the designing needs. Furthermore, the designing of networks in all means will encourage my endeavor of system designs using networking with mecha-tronics. I hope to gain from this program the training required of a Network Engineer.

5 Year Plan - In five years I see possibilities of the company that I am with will find themselves with a combination of technology fields that build greater secure systems and ensure better connectivity. I see myself with those who know the industry and are making great strides in services and products. I see myself with LANWAN Professionals making great strides and improving the technology services by leaps and bounds in access and proliferation.

Adam R. of Oceanside, CA - 11/10/11

About Me - I am an IT junkie. I was offered my first IT job because I accidentally brought down the network in the College of Sciences at SDSU. An angry admin came into the room, and asked why I set one of the computers in the lab to the same IP as the DHCP server. This led to a position where I ultimately standardized the entire college, had an IT team, and as a result of no more challenges, became bored and moved on. I am the type of person who needs challenges, problems to solve, IT geek interaction, and new technologies to explore. What really makes me unique however, is that I am an excellent communicator, easily able to communicate and inspire trust, even in those not familiar with tech. On a side note, last year I got a copy of a study manual for the Network+ exam. I enjoyed reading it so much, that I ended up taking the test and passing it.

Life Inspiration - The most inspirational person I know is a PhD named Eric Frost. He is an odd combination of incredibly smart, incredibly knowledgeable, and incredibly humble. People flock to Eric, who I consider a friend as well as mentor, because he leads by making others succeed. He is not perfect, but much of his leadership style I strive to emulate. He is the kind of person that once you know him, you cannot help becoming a better person yourself.

Program Goals - I want to work closer to the hardware. I am currently working on data center optimizations, but only on a topical level. I make recommendations on hardware (server and networking) that will increase IOPS and/or decrease power utilization resulting in rebates from the power companies. Being around the hardware excites me, and learning how to configure it, even more so. From what I have read, your program would give me these skills, enabling me to directly dive into data center work. I am interested in transitioning from being an analyst to an engineer, and I think your program would be a good fit.

5 Year Plan - At the forefront of data center design and optimization strategy. I could see myself either as a consultant, helping organizations implement best practices, or as a data center manager, working to solve the problems of harnessing the full potential of big data. I have strong connections in the Oil and Gas, so possibly in this domain.

Justin G. of Newport News , VA - 11/10/11

About Me - I'm a newly married military spouse and father. Moving from my home in Washington DC, to the Hampton Roads area presented a bit of a problem employment wise. Slightly out of my element and removed from my networking base, it has made it hard to root myself with any one organization. What I'm really looking for is an opportunity where I can utilize my experience and desire to learn, to grow as a professional. Growing up with parents in IT management, I've been in the IT world all my life working in several facets from data entry and help desk to eventually becoming a technician in a number of industries. As years have gone by and my concentration has shifted more from software to hardware I am constantly drawn to the advancements in technology and am inspired to stay ahead of the curve.

Life Inspiration - The most inspiring thing to me is my family. As far back as I can remember, whenever someone asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up, my answer wasnt the typical lawyer or doctor. Instead, I proudly said a husband and father. Now realizing and living my dream I can't put into words the honor and privilege I feel, not to mention the responsibilty. They've inspired me to be a better man, a more caring person and to fully understand that sacrifice means nothing without having something to give it up for. They push me to be the best.

Program Goals - I hope to gain prosperity; in my career, finances and overall quality of life. This opportunity is the catalyst and stepping stone to achieve all those things. Aside from giving me the resources and knowledge to be a successful key to any organizations IT team, it also will give me the confidence that there is hope and help for those struggling to find their nitch.

5 Year Plan - In 5 short years I see myself as the integral piece to a very successful IT team. I will continue to strive for knowledge and ways to improve myself and my team. Enjoying every moment no matter how difficult the challenge, knowing I have the skill and will to tackle any obstacle.

Ivan H. of Hampton, VA - 11/10/11

About Me - As an individual I am a motivated and driven person. I work hard at everything I do. I have a Manufacturing engineering degree and math minor from VSU where I earned that while playing college basketball and working a job. I said that to say that I am more than capable and up for the challenge of what this position and training will entail for me to learn and the rigors that come along with it. I have been raised to work hard and have a proven track record of excelling at what I put my mind too. If you give me a chance I will not disappoint.

Life Inspiration - In 2008 I nearly lost my father to a near fatal motorcycle accident. They told my mom he had 24 hours to live the night of the accident. The next morning when he made it through the night the doctor said if he survives he will not be able to talk, walk, remember the past and or what happened. Today my father is walking, talking, is not affected with any memory loss, and still Pastoring at a local church in Newport News, VA. This situation has taught me more than words can describe. It showed me that when all odds are against you never give up and that you can make it through. I saw my dad give everything he had mentally, physically, and emotionally to beat his battle. Before that my dad was my role model and now after that situation he's my role model, my inspiration, my motivation, my encouragement, and more than I could ever express. When times get rough and I lose drive and motivation I think about what I saw him deal with his road to recovery and also what he taught me growing up as a young man. So the answer to each and every last aspect of that question is my father Ivan T. Harris.

Program Goals - While reading this program details and information, I get excited. I see opportunity, knowledge, job security, personal advancement, and so much more. This program and the training involved will give me something that no one will ever be able to take away from me, education. If I am accepted in the program this will give me another tool to excel in life. Someone once told me that you want to work somewhere where you are celebrated not tolerated; and with the tools I already have and what I will gain from this program and job opportunity I will surely be celebrated.

5 Year Plan - In five years I see myself as a top engineer and or IT professional in my field of choice. I will have received my Masters in Business Administration and looking if not already began my Doctorate or Ph.D. I want to be on the fast track to move up in the profession to where I am the lead IT professional and or engineer where I become an IT or engineering manager so that I can then transition into the corporate side of the profession. I set my goals high because its been instilled in me to aim high because I have no limit to what I can achieve.

Ivan H. of Hampton, VA - 11/10/11

About Me - As a individual I am a motivated and driven person. I work hard at everything I do. I have a Manufacturing engineering degree and math minor from VSU where I earned that while playing college basketball and working a job. I said that to say that I am more than capable and up for the challenge of what this position and training will entail for me to learn and the rigors that come along with it. I have been raised to work hard and have a proven track record of excelling at what I put my mind too. If you give me a chance I will not disappoint.

Life Inspiration - In 2008 I nearly lost my father to a near fatal motorcycle accident. They told my mom he had 24 hours to live the night of the accident. The next morning when he made it through the night the doctor said if he survives he will not be able to talk, walk, remember the past and or what happened. Today my father is walking, talking, is not affected with any memory loss, and still Pastoring at a local church in Newport News, VA. This situation has taught me more than words can describe. It showed me that when all odds are against you never give up and that you can make it through. I saw my dad give everything he had mentally, physically, and emotionally to beat his battle. Before that my dad was my role model and now after that situation he's my role model, my inspiration, my motivation, my encouragement, and more than I could ever express. When times get rough and I lose drive and motivation I think about what I saw him deal with his road to recovery and also what he taught me growing up as a young man. So the answer to each and every last aspect of that question is my father Ivan T. Harris.

Program Goals - While reading this program details and information, I get excited. I see opportunity, knowledge, job security, personal advancement, and so much more. This program and the training involved will give me something that no one will ever be able to take away from me, education. If I am accepted in the program this will give me another tool to excel in life. Someone once told me that you want to work somewhere where you are celebrated not tolerated; and with the tools I already have and what I will gain from this program and job opportunity I will surely be celebrated.

5 Year Plan - In five years I see myself as a top engineer and or IT professional in my field of choice. I will have received my Masters in Business Administration and looking if not already began my Doctorate or Ph.D. I want to be on the fast track to move up in the profession to where I am the lead IT professional and or engineer where I become an IT or engineering manager so that I can then transition into the corporate side of the profession. I set my goals high because its been instilled in me to aim high because I have no limit to what I can achieve.

Ralph D. of Smyrna, TN - 11/09/11

About Me - I am Ralph M. Dotson a student due to graduate 12/21/2011 with a Masters of Science degree in Management with a concentration in Information Technology from Colorado Technical University, Colorado Springs, CO. Additionally,I have acquired a Bachelor of Science in Engineering Systems from Middle Tennessee State University Murfreesboro,TN and an Associate of Science degree in Electronic Engineering Technology from Nashville State Technical Institute in Nashville, TN. My thirst for academia has had me occupy the role of student from 2006-Present and I am a life time learner and change agent. My work experience has mostly been in the electrical industry and manufacturing, but now I hope to embark on a career as an IT professional. I am also seeking to acquire certification soon as a Comp TIA A+ certified individual. This is being done to make me more knowledgeable of the internal workings and troubleshooting of computers. The more versatile I become the more adept at performing IT functionality in several regards. I want to become a major catalyst for positive change by improving upon the antiquated Legacy database software systems still in use by many organizations. My knowledge of agile methodology and the four layers of the TCP/IP reference model for communications will aid greatly in my pursuit of this endeavor to become a successful LAN/WAN professional.

Life Inspiration - My most inspirational moment came when I had an epiphany to become an IT Professional. My fascination with all things electrical and electronic and my desire to attain a high level of proficiency with computer I/O has aspired me to want to attain a high level position with some prosperous organization. My background in engineering requires me to be multifaceted and my embarking on the pursuit of a Masters degree in Information Technology proves how serious and dedicated I am to establishing a career as an IT professional.

Program Goals - From this program I hope to become a vessel of higher learning in order to become an accomplished LAN/WAN Professional. The program entry would provide me with the assurance that I would be acquiring highly technical skills that would greatly enhance my performing as a IT LAN/WAN professional. My desire to be an effective change agent and asset to any organization fuels my need to enter into this program. Employment in this capacity is highly honorable and would fill me with great pride to know that this would be my profession and means of sustenance. My job skills would be honed and sought after and this would lead to employment providing increased monetary compensation for my efforts. This is a win win situation that can be the source of great benefits for my family and our futures.

5 Year Plan - In five years I hope to have acquired the skills commensurate to that of a working LAN/WAN professional. I want to be considered extremely proficient at designing, implementing, administering and troubleshooting medium, large to enterprise level LAN/WAN networks. To be gainfully employed as an IT professional providing the skills and knowledge to meet the goals of any organization utilizing software systems. Further, in this position I will be performing in a manner that leads to an organizations objectives being met and realized for business success and profitability.

Cinammon H. of Charlotte, NC - 11/09/11

About Me - I'm a motivated and determined undergrad student striving to finally find my break into the technology world,which will lead me in to my career of success. I want to become successful and this is a start to enhance just that. Success comes from hard work, dedication and the willingness to overcome and achieve any obstacles that may surface. I always attempt to demonstrate those qualities. I'm a person who works hard in a team environment I'm open to constructive criticism, at the same time I add my input and ideas into projects, discussion, and meetings. It's important to me that I always possess honesty, and maintain integrity in life, because it allows me to build rapport with employers, friends,and co-workers. What interest me about this opportunity is the notion that the technology field is extremely broad, and most importantly growing rapidly and to have the honor and opportunity to become a part of LAN/WAN Professional is life changing. I understand the industrious energy that I will have to put forth however, everything is possible and if giving the opportunity I will succeed.

Life Inspiration - I have two inspirational individuals in my life and that is my children. They motivate me to strive for success, and to become the best person that I can be. My goal is to set an example for them and allow them to see my drive to become someone who works hard and dedication to succeed. I'm a role model to them, and I always stress to them that failure is not an option, and if faced with failure it's important to turn that negative in to a positive.

Program Goals - To have the opportunity to land an opportunity with LAN/WAN Professional is success to me. I 'm confident I will get an abundance of knowledge and understanding from this opportunity. I hope to take everything I've learned to start a career that will allow me to become successful. Even though I have knowledge in LAN/WAN networks, I hope to broaden my knowledge regarding the networks across the metropolitan, national, and regional areas.

5 Year Plan - I see myself as an entrepreneur running a career service which specializes in the technology field giving others the opportunity that I'm striving for. I will be honored to travel around the world and speak to others about maintaining a successful career and offering hands on training in this field.

George D. of Woonsocket, RI - 11/08/11

About Me - I recently just exited the Army as a network administrator. I originally was interested in programming when I finished high school, but after getting some experience with networking, I really enjoy the field and want to learn more. I am a very friendly person and I can fit in any environment. I never have any problems with other people and I never fall behind. I like to stay competitive and on the top. I have always been the "Go To Guy" whenever any problems come up. I love to learn anything about computers, especially networking. I wanted to stay in the Army, but I find myself wanting to learn more about the IT field. Now I attend a college for Network Engineering with a current GPA average of around 3.95, hoping to get it to 4.0 within the finals.

Life Inspiration - My most inspirational moment was when I landed from my first jump out of a C-130 aircraft. I was an Airborne Soldier in the Army, and at that time I was scared out of my hair to jump out. When it came time, I didn't think of anything. I didn't feel anything. I just did. It was important to me that day, because I realized many different things. One was, "Wow, I just did something 99% of other people would never experience". I want to do more great things. I want to be great myself. Not in an arrogant way, but I realized that I can do more great things. All I have do to get there is "just do it". Sounds cliche, but I firmly believe if I push myself, not thinking about what "might" happen, I can do anything.

Program Goals - I hope to gain as much knowledge, contacts, and certifications in the fastest time possible with the highest of quality. I do not want to learn just the basics and go on. I want to learn every detail about the specifics of every equipment. I want this to be one of the first major steps in my career path that I take to achieve my long term goal.

5 Year Plan - In 5 years I want to be in a Senior position of LAN/WAN manager, systems engineer, or related field. I am also interested in security and want to finish my Masters in IT Security by then. I will also look into available colleges/universities for a Doctoral program around IT Management, so that I may lead large teams as either CIO or equivalent.

Keier D. of Indianapolis, IN - 11/08/11

About Me - I am a Microsoft Certified - Enterprise Administrator that has been working in the Healthcare Industry with an Electronic Medical Records vendor where I implement and support fully integrated IT solutions for Cardiology practices nationwide. Although my position as a Field Engineer has provided me great fulfillment and valuable skillsets, I am looking to expand my horizons and expound upon my current knowledge base and focus more solely on networks and global connectivity through available opportunities such as this one.

Life Inspiration - For me, the most inspirational idea is the perspective towards attitude that author Charles Swindoll eloquently describes is one of his famous quotes. I am a firm believer in the notion of, out of the many things in this world beyond our control, our attitude if one of the few things in which we can exert our free will. Despite the circumstances we find ourselves enveloped in, we can control how we act and react; with optimism, or unfortunately for most people with pessimism. I fully understand that this is the dichotomous nature of mankind. nevertheless I freely choose to embrace this opportunity, just as all others, with an open mind and a positive outlook/expectation. Otherwise, we're never truly ready to learn, grow, and prosper!

Program Goals - I am looking to have the experience improve my odds of attaining specific career, as well as personal goals. The program sounds intriguing and seems to require an immense amount of self-motivation. In opportunities such as this, I welcome challenges that involve creative thinking and expand my intellectual ability. I also look forward to using my natural talents in an industry that I enjoy, as well as an environment conducive to the further development of me as an independent engineer who is also a valued resource in a larger collaboration.

5 Year Plan - I see myself in a secure network engineering position with a reputable organization that focuses on network security and inter-connectivity. I would ideally like to work for a young to recently established company, so I can get in on the ground floor and take advantage of all the valuable opportunities a growing company has to offer.

Stephen S. of Lower Brule, SD - 11/04/11

About Me - I have worked and lived in Lower Brule, South Dakota since March of 1994. When I came to work for the Lower Brule Sioux Tribe, they had two stand alone personal computers and an IBM system 36 running dumb terminals. Under my Informational Technology leadership, the tribe expanded its use of technology to include a multi-building IP routed network, twelve servers operating in a Microsoft Windows network environment, over 400 workstations, IP telecommunications integration, and inbound remote access. The network provides shared resources that allow for increased worker productivity through inter-departmental collaboration. Shared resources include email through a locally maintained Microsoft Exchange server; voice and messaging services through an Avaya Definity PBX including IP phone and Microsoft Exchange integrated Unified Messaging components; network printers; and both video conferencing and web services through a ten mbps internet connection. Network security is provided through the use of Windows Active Directory and security features built into the Windows network operating system; a Sonic firewall sitting between our internal community network and our internet connection; Symantec Enterprise virus protection; and 3Com, now HP, enterprise managed switches configured to provide vlan segregation as appropriate. An updated IBM AS 400 has replaced the system 36, and every dumb terminal has been replaced with a PC providing access to the AS 400 system through IBM Client Access. Connectivity between buildings is provided through Proxim Wireless with quality of service and security implemented as appropriate. The end result has been to sustain job performance by providing greater access to inter-departmental resources. For example, the tribal schools have decreased the rate of truancy by coordinating efforts with the tribal courts through the use of the email and scheduling functions of Microsoft Outlook. Likewise, the tribal courts have been better able to follow through with court ordered sentencing that includes resources provided by other tribal entities through Microsoft Outlook. Finally, a recent collaboration utilizing network resources resulted in additional government funding of our tribal court services in the amount of $750,000.00. I was instrumental in this effort. I have been the catalyst in the design, purchase, configuration, and implementation of all components necessary to make our information technologies infrastructure work. I have done so while serving as Director of Information Technologies Services for the Lower Brule Sioux Tribe. In this position, I am responsible for daily departmental operations necessary to sustain and enhance the Lower Brule Tribal Community Network. Day to day operations includes the purchase and deployment of technology, including computer imaging, long and short term network planning, and the deployment of and participation in help desk services. Positions under my supervision included an administrative assistant and two computer and network technicians.

Life Inspiration - The person who has inspired me the most is Grady Collins. I met Grady when I was teaching at the Stephan Boarding School for Native American Youth in Stephan, South Dakota. Grady saw raw talent in me, and encouraged me to make these talents work for me. Under Grady's guidance, I wrote a National Indian School Board Association Student of the Year Application for one Delbert Comes Flying, a high school senior at the time. Delbert was selected as NISBA Student of the Year for that school year, and Grady talked our Governor in South Dakota at that time, Governor George S. Mickelson, into issuing a proclamation setting aside a day of celebrating young Delbert's achievements. The governor came to Stephan School on that day and celebrated with our staff and students. He gave a speech honoring Delbert at this celebration, and quoted directly from the biography that I had wrote for Delbert as part of the application process. This initial success led to a string of successful writings, including a successful NISBA Principal of the Year application for our Principal, Cody Russell; several grants that provided seed money to help sustain the Lower Brule Alternative School in its infancy; two HUD Youth Sports grants that provided an indoor pool for the Lower Brule Sioux Tribe; and a Youth Wellness Grant that evolved into the current Boys and Girls Club of Lower Brule. Grady passed on some years ago. In his lifetime, he had served as Sheriff of Brule County, South Dakota; as a youth counselor and later as a Certified Chemical Dependency Counselor for Youth. When he passed on, Grady was completing studies to be come an episcopal priest, with the goal of serving rural Native American Episcopal churches throughout the State of South Dakota.

Program Goals - I expect to leave the program with valuable Cisco certification. I expect to leave the program with hands on work experience more focused on technologies directly related to CCNA than is my current work experience. I expect to leave the program fully ready, willing, and able to work at a job requiring or prefering Cisco certification. I expect to land in a position that pays in the range of $ 100,000.00 /year. Landing an intership at a Vegas Casino for the duration of the training would be cream cheese icing on the cake!

5 Year Plan - Within the next five years, I would like to work on a Crusie Ship as the Shipboard IT Manager. Cruise Ship contractual employment with significant blocks of time off between contracts to explore and enjoy interests me much. I will use my free time blocks - usually eight weeks - to explore training opportunities, travel, and short term experiences such as working on a movie set. One of the things I would like to do while employed on a cruise ship is to save a significant amount of money that can be used to nearly pay for a residence in full. Beyond working on a cruise ship, I would like to land gainful employment in the information technologies filed that pays a better than average wage and that allows me to experience and enjoy life at a level that I may find rewarding.

Conrad P. of Baltimore, MD - 11/04/11

About Me - My name is Conrad Peal and the bulk of my career has been in Mortgage banking, but most recently I was employed as a cable technician installing low voltage cables for voice and data. I'm a self taught computer enthusiast who had a few C++ programming classes in college and simply continued to learn about computers and their hardware. I find that everywhere I go professional and personally I'm able to get along with most people due to the fact that I come from a varied background having been born in West Africa and partially raised in Germany. Currently I'm a a point in my life where I've got to make a decision as to my future and family and as a result have left my family and home in sunny Florida to seek employment and/or schooling in the Tri-state(MD,VA,DC) area.

Life Inspiration - As far as inspiration goes, I get all the motivation for wanting what I want out of life, from where I come from. I was born in a third world country and having been in America for the past 24 years, I constantly thrive to be more educated, because in Liberia there are generations of children who will never get half the education I've received in this country. Also, my family has always bestowed the valued of education to me so that I never sell myself short in terms of my education. I honestly hope to be accepted into the program as I thinks it's a great opportunity for anyone wanting to improve their life.

Program Goals - I hope to become a certified network technician who has the necessary hands on skills to gain meaningful employment upon completion of the program. I've always been a hands on person in most things I do. I expect no less from this program that I'll have ample hands on training once I'm trying to enter the job market. I assure you that I'm 100% dedicated to this program to learn and improve not only my professional career but also my personal life with hopefully a decent paying career, as you have so impressively promised here on your site.

5 Year Plan - I see myself being at the head of an IT department at a large corporate office or the owner of an IT consulting firm. I'm currently 38 years old and have not gotten all I thought I would get from the mortgage banking and consequently am now left at a crossroads due to the economic crisis we're currently facing. Therefore, I hope that going forward I will not have to switch careers again as the IT industry will be in much demand for a long time to come, certainly more than five years!

SHI P. of IRVINE, CA - 11/04/11

About Me - I was graduated from San Jose State University with a B.S. in Industrial & Systems Engineering in 2007. Unlike my other girlfriends, I was one of the few that took interest in technology and decided to pursue a career in the high-tech industry. Also, I was my family's first female obtaining a 4-year college degree in the engineering field. To my family, it was a huge breakthrough in the family and something that I would always be proud of and cherish for. After I graduated, as I always longed for, I was able to land myself a decent job in the Bay Area, CA. Since then, I had been working as a Quality Engineer for four years. Working with the world's largest maker of electronic components had helped me gained a lot of insight about the technologies. I also enjoyed working with cross-functional teams because I was able to see different perspectives from different departments and learned from them. One department that always trigged up my curiosity was the IT department. Whenever I sought our IT for support, I was always amazed by how much they knew about the computers and able to manipulate the computers any way they wanted. I am always keen about the computers and like to learn all about it and control it. Being an IT would be just fit into those criteria perfectly.

Life Inspiration - I thought the computer was the most innovation ever! The first time that I encountered a computer was when I was 8-year old. My cousin had just bought a second hand computer and he was learning how to type and print a document out from it. Before, I thought typewriter was the only word processor. Later, I learned his computer could do more than just word processing because he used it for games and data storage. As a kid, I was fantasized by it because I never thought computer could do so much things for the human. I remembered I would constantly asked my parents to get me one but they would always decline my request because it was too expensive for them to afford. After years of waiting, I finally got my first computer from my uncle, who built it from scratch. There was not a moment that I would not stare at my computer whenever I was in my bedroom. Whenever I was allowed to be on the computer, I could not wait to try out all the programs that were pre-installed onto the computer. The computers had not only inspired the world, it had also inspired me to become who I want to be today - a geek!

Program Goals - I would like to become a LAN/WAN professional and be able to resolve IT problems myself instead of relying on somebody else. It always thrilled me when I noticed new features coming out from the newly developed hardwares or softwares. Becoming a LAN/WAN professional, I will always be the first ones to learn about the new features and be able to manipulate them. At the same time, I will be able to help others and myself to create better working environment.

5 Year Plan - In 5 years, I see myself finding a stable job and work my way up to a supervisor or management position. I do not like to jump around companies because I want to gain solid skills and contribute to the company. I like to work around people and learn about new things. Being an IT and graduate from this program would help me to build a good foundation in the industry and grow professionally.

Michael T. of Philadelphia, PA - 11/03/11

About Me - I am a very adaptive and assertive person who interacts with people well. I am unrelenting in achieving my goals. I graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering Technology. While in school, I worked as an intern at Lechtzer Incorporated as a designer and tester on various electrical/mechanical devices and software. I love critical thinking and solving problems. Last but not least, I am self motivated, hard working, good team player and have good communication skills.

Life Inspiration - My most inspirational moment was President Obama presidential victory speech. His election to the office of the President of the United States of America was something that people did not think would happen but it did. It is inspirational because he said "Change will not come if we wait for some other person, or if we wait for some other time. We are the ones we've been waiting for. We are the change that we seek.” From that, I believe that nothing can remain the same and that people have the power to make a positive change.

Program Goals - At the end of the program, I will like to be knowledgeable in designing and implementing area networks, network servers and routers, standardized procedures that will improve efficiency and effectiveness in IT LAN/WAN operations. I will like to be able to test and maintain LAN/WAN devices, diagnosed, identified and resolved common LAN/WAN issues. In addition, I will like to be acquainted with network infrastructures like routing, switching, security and VOIP.

5 Year Plan - For the next five years I will like to make a big progress in the technology field. This will grant me the opportunity to take on additional tasks, acquired sufficient skills and knowledge that I can use to contribute to the growth and advancement of the agency or organization that I will have the opportunity to work with five years from now. In addition, I am fascinated in having a long term commitment to a career and job.

Angela C. of Katy, TX - 11/03/11

About Me - I have worked in IT since 1991. I certified early on with Novell. I have a very strong understanding with hands on experience of networking, infrastructure design and support but never pursued certifications. With the market now flooded I find myself aging, needing proof (papers) of my abilities and working against competition that's taking a much lower salary than I have over the past several years. I am confident I will be an exceptional asset to any company with interest. Professionalism is gained with experience and I intend to capitalize on mine as well as exhaust all possibilities with this program to position myself for continued success in the 2nd half of my IT career.

Life Inspiration - J. Harshaw; my former director at the cruise lines. His enthusiasm for technology was exciting, his explanation of our goals were enthusiastic and inspiring. He himself was a huge computer geek that has made a significant mark on many people's lives and the cruise lines industry.

Program Goals - I intend to attain a more thorough and educated understanding of the industry standards. As a former IT manager I have recently realized the importance of "written proof" when dealing with an abundance of experience and the lack of education. To have both on a team within two people is powerful to BE both in one person IS the POWER. I expect this program to empower me more.

5 Year Plan - I will be continuing to accomplish the life time goals I have set, creating new ones and celebrating the achievements I have and will continue to attain. There are many cert programs available and I believe this one will give me the edge I need to feel more confident and comfortable as I continue to enjoy the IT path with all its ever evolving excitement.

William R. of San Antonio, TX - 10/31/11

About Me - Hello, my name is William Allen Roberson, I am 45 years old. I retired from the US Army (in 2007) after giving 25 years of services to my country. I served 4 combat tours of duty between Iraq and Afghanistan. I was and engineer officer, I have two Bachelors degrees, one in Engineering Management and the other in Technical Management, my first Bachelors was achieved in 1986 from Hampton University and the other in 2010 from DeVry University. I am presently work on my MBA, with an area of interest in information security, from Keller Graduate School of Management, I on track to graduate in May 2012. I am married to an awesome woman (Tracie) who is my soulmate, we have a beautiful three year old daughter Chyna, (pronounced China). I am a very loyal person who is dedicated and mission / project focused. I love challenging work the kind that constantly challenge me mentally.

Life Inspiration - My most inspirational moment was when my three year old (who is being home schooled by my wife and I) learned her one's, and two's multiplication table. It is so rewarding to teach and mold someone to be a asset to society, to assist in the infrastructure of their education, and to ensure they have the ethical and moral values that this great county was built on.

Program Goals - I hope to gain the expertise, credentials and knowledge within the area of technology that will help broaden my world as it applies to information technology. I hope to work with and be mentored by top notch information technologist that will allow me to assist in their research so that I may one day be considered an expert in the area as are they.

5 Year Plan - I see myself having completed my doctorate in Information Technology from Capella University, I am in the process of going through the admission process now. I see my self working in a Senior Executive, Information Technology, position within a large information technology firm, one that will allow me to assist in some research on a limited bases.

Thalmus M. of McDonough, GA - 10/28/11

About Me - I am a married father of three boys. I am active in youth sports, school functions, and considered the neighborhood father for all the kids on the street. I have been a service tech since 1996. I started out working on commercial laundry equipment and went to the communication field. First with Media one, now known as Comcast. Those experiences led me to Bellsouth where I was there for twelve years. I retired last year because of potential layoffs from AT&T. Now I am ready to start a new career and this is the best offer I have seen out there.

Life Inspiration - The most inspirational moment I have experienced comes from the birth of my kids and to see the joy in their faces when they have accomplished something important to them. The most sacred time come from when my mother said her cancer was cured. This disease is so deadly and to hear that was so amazing I just thank God for his favor on my mother. I really like when I do something that she feels that was an important accomplishment for me. As I get older things that were important then are not now because family and being able to support them trumps everything.

Program Goals - I am trying to get the proper training and education so that I can have a successful career in the IT field. This concept of applying hands on and real world training while you are learning offers everything I need to ensure that I can be as asset to any company. The mentors and mangers can offer feedback on what mistakes I am making so that I can correct them instead of it becoming a habit. I really feel like this will give me the training, education, and confidence I need to be successful.

5 Year Plan - In five years I see myself getting ready for my oldest son's graduation from high school and my youngest graduation from kindergarten. Along with those milestone I would like to have a successful career in the IT field in a leadership role. In those five years I intend on continuing my education so that I can be at the highest level of the IT field. I want to be able to train others and offer the same kind of support that I received to get to this point in my life. In five years I would like to make a difference in someone's life.

Kelly L. of Tarzana, CA - 10/27/11

About Me - I worked in the IT field from 1986 - 1991. I learned the fundamentals of this vocation, as the then young industry, as each of the new technologies were born. I have a working knowledge of the OSI-ISO seven layer module, even before it became the Industry standard. I have a strong working knowledge of Packet switching which, as with most of my skills, I was using before most people had exposure to this new technology. I was a test-lab manager, so I had the opportunity to test, evaluate, and recommend devices like TDMultiplexors, Repeaters, Bridges, and Routers. I have working knowledge of most Topologies and Protocols used. My customer service skills were known to include honesty, timeliness, commitment to quality and dependability. My work ethic is something that I have always been able to depend on, even on those tough almost due projects. I am a leader.

Life Inspiration - My most inspirational moment was when my now eighteen year old daughter was born. As I held her, as she slept on my stomach that first night, I was in awe of this beautiful creature that I held. I stared in wonderment, experiencing a spiritual quality that I had never felt. It humbled me, changed me, and showed me unconditional love on a level I never knew, Though I had a son, five years later, born on the same day ironically, and I felt some of those same feelings, it was never as overwhelming as those I felt that day his sister was born..

Program Goals - I got out of the industry in 1991. Started a family, moved around, and never went back to IT. I worked mainly as a Production Technician in Semiconductor Manufacturing. The one thing that use to amaze me was the knowledge I learned, and how long it took the rest of the industry to use that knowledge. I have felt that I probably am just a little behind any IT tech working now, and I have only felt that in the last 4 or 5 years. So, I am hoping to use this program to update my skills, refreshing my fundamentals, and give me an opportunity to do again, the one job that I loved doing.

5 Year Plan - Hard question to answer. I think that my experience and personnel life knowledge, will give me a head start in getting back to the IT industry. If that happens, then I could probably write my own ticket in the direction that I wanted to go. I would always want something challenging and fulfilling, so working in any big company would not be beyond my reach. Wherever I am, I will leave a mark with who I work with, who I work for, and who I teach in this field.

Ryan P. of Charlotte, NC - 10/27/11

About Me - I'm an experienced IT professional, I graduated college with a BS in Computer Information Systems and I began working for IBM. I was with IBM for 9 years in different roles. I began on the Internal helpdesk in which we supported internal employees for IBM using different applications such as Lotus Notes, Win NT, Win 2000, Win XP, network troubleshooting, outage reporting, supported mainframe systems(vm and mvs), VPN applications (SINE and ATT NetClient). I was promoted to a Quality Assurance Analyst which my responsibilities were monitoring calls that came into the call center and graded them on quality and the recommended standards that were set. We had weekly callibration meetings to make sure the team was consistent in grading and even developed new policies for the helpdesk as well. Those positions were transitioned overseas and during the process, we trained a lot of the future agents and rated them on their performance. After the transitioned, I began doing helpdesk support for one of IBM's client accounts, Honeywell. We supported different applications and did a lot of troubleshooting and password resets in many applications such as Active Directory, MS Exchange Server, SAP, mainframe, VPN, Managenow and Oracle. That position was also transitioned overseas and currently now I'm working for Connextions where I do phone support for their Vonage account. We do a lot of network troubleshooting and using XML coding to read some of the features on an account.

Life Inspiration - IBM had a lot of server migrations going on and several incidents with servers crashing, in the meantime they created backup servers. My 3rd line manager had several important meetings and appointments that she kept missing even though they were placed in the calendar. Her assistant was trying to figure out why they were never able to update and give the manager notice of the appointments and meetings. She got the local IT technician to take a look at the manager's Lotus Notes calendar and mail file to see what was going on. He worked on it for several hours and could not figure it out. He knew I supported Lotus Notes and he came and asked me if I could figure out why she was still missing the meetings. I looked at the mail files and checked to see which server they were replicating with. I watched the assistant put in a meeting and replicate. I tracked the process and noticed that she was replicating with the backup server. The main server was up and I had her switch to the main server. She replicated and it showed up, the 3rd line manager was finally able to get her appointment and meeting notifications. I was never thanked by the 3rd line manager for fixing the issue, but just the fact that I was able to fix the problem in a matter of minutes, made me feel wonderful and attested to my skills I had developed while at IBM.

Program Goals - To broaden my knowledge in LAN/WAN support which will enable me to expand my horizons and be able to make a huge jump in the IT industry to make an impact. I enjoy the ever changing IT field and the new technologies that begin and even the advancements made in the current technologies and applications that exist.

5 Year Plan - In 5 years I plan on having a position as a System Admin, Systems Analyst, Network Admin, or Server admin. Those parts of IT really interest in me and I have a passion for all of them. I would also like to start my own company so that I can spend more time with my family and watch my children grow up without missing important events in their lives.

Peter G. of Springfield, VI - 10/26/11

About Me - My name is Peter Greiss. I am a 26 year old Mechanical Engineer. I graduated in 2008 with a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering from Virginia Commonwealth University. During my time at VCU, I did a two summer internship with the Naval Research Laboratory in Washington D.C. As an intern, I was involved in testing, assembling, and integrating launch vehicles for spacecraft projects. More specifically I would prepare instrumentation for vibration testing, acoustic testing, and data acquisition. After graduating from VCU, I went on to work at the Naval Surface Warfare Center in Indian Head, Maryland where I held a position as a Quality Evaluation Engineer as well as completed my Master's degree in Engineering and Technology Management. Due to budget cuts and certain family factors out of my control, I was put in a position in which resignation was a choice I had to make. Therefore I am back in the job market looking to put my engineering education to good use. I work well individually and/or in a team setting. I also possess good analytical skills, problem solving skills and am familiar with information technology as well as general computer knowledge. Aside from the professional aspect, I am an easy going, fun person, who loves to laugh and have a good time. I am a huge sports and sneaker fanatic and enjoy greatly spending time with my family.

Life Inspiration - The most inspirational person in my life is my father. He lost his father at the young age of 18 and knew then and there that it would be his responsibility to provide for his family. He decided to leave Egypt and come to the United States in efforts to better himself and send money back to his family and has been doing that ever since. Even though he did it as an entrepreneur, he never lost sight of the importance of education. Therefore when my sister and I were born, he continued to save money in order to send us to college so that we would not have to go through the struggles he had to endure. He's inspired me to do well in life and in my career and has supported me no matter what. Even when I do well he asks nothing in return and is just satisfied to see me do well. In turn I would like to do well in order to give him a break from working and hopefully soon help him retire.

Program Goals - Through entering this program I hope to gain the knowledge needed to be involved with the information technology industry. I am aware that there is currently a high volume of LAN/WAN positions and not enough qualified candidates. I want to use this program as a stepping stone to increase my overall knowledge and further my career in efforts to support myself and start a family.

5 Year Plan - In the next 5 years I see myself as a successful, young professional managing a team within a successful company. I see myself as a person in whom people from the company rely on for information and expertise in order to complete job functions. I also see myself as a home owner, husband, and starting a family. My goals as any parent is to pass on all my knowledge and experiences to my children in order to set them up for success.

DaMon P. of St. Louis, MI - 10/25/11

About Me - I am a self-described junkie for learning. I enjoy learning and taking on new challenges. I believe that I am a people's person as I enjoy meeting and talking with new people, people of various backgrounds. Before I took on the challenge of the insurance sales industry, I was in the engineering profession for more than ten (10) years. My career was cut short due to the economy crisis. I have a family to support and provide for, so I could not allow that setback to ground me which is how I ended up becoming a salesman. I now have a better work ethic and understand the enjoyment received out of working hard to accomplish a goal and accomplishing that goal. But, I am now ready to accept the next challenge in my life. I feel, by making it to Regional Manager in Insurance Sales in less than two years, that I have gone farther than I ever set out to go with insurance sales. I never intended to make sales a permanent career and I still don't. But, at this point in my life, making something a permanent career is exactly what I need.

Life Inspiration - When I was 21 years of age, my mom passed away, succumbing to her battle with lung cancer. A very strong, independent and compassionate woman, my mother raised three (3) well-educated, God-fearing, diverse young men. Since February 14, 1997, the day of her passing, I have dedicated my life to ensuring that I make her proud and showing the world that she did a magnificent job in raising me. This dedication to her has given me great inspiration towards being successful enough to help others that are not as blessed as I have been.

Program Goals - I am looking to get everything this program has to offer in its entirety. I have always enjoyed computers and attempting to figure out how they work. I see this as a major challenge because I know how complex computer system can be. I know that I will need to invest a great deal of my own time outside of the program in order to be successful. There is almost nothing that I enjoy more than learning and being successful. I believe that this program will help me accomplish both.

5 Year Plan - In five years, I plan on being a business owner. This program may alter just what type of business it becomes, as I may need to figure out a way to infuse Engineering and IT services. I may even need to include insurance as well (just a thought). But, I definately plan to be in better position to help others five (5) years from now.

David J. of Milwaukee, WI - 10/21/11

About Me - I grew up in Milwaukee, WI. I am the youngest of four born to parents who were career social workers. My oldest sister only lived just a few weeks for she was born prematurely. I was the last in the family to get a college degree and the 4th to get a graduate degree. In fact, I am still trying to talk my brother (the middle child) into getting an advanced degree so we can complete the family portfolio so to speak. I am a man of many gifts and talents. While I will admit that I am a slow reader, I am a fast learner. Generally, you only have to show me how something works once for me to get it. In addition, in a short period of time I will discern how to refine and improve process. I am a visionary, who enjoys people and is committed to improving my community. I serve on the stewardship team for the Community Transformation Project at Marquette University, the Jobs/Business committee and the Park Committee for Washington Park Partners, and volunteer as Project Coordinator for Cream City Gardens. I have always had an interest in computers and technology. I was the first kid on my block to own an Odyssey2 gaming system (the first of its kind with a full size keyboard) and collected several handheld games. It is amazing how entertaining a bunch of blinking lights can be. I can build /assemble computers from scratch and currently serve as a Network Consultant for Milwaukee Mental Health Services. I was enrolled in the Computers Science program at UT-Chattanooga for a year and a half until I got concerned that I was preparing for a future behind a computer screen, barely interacting with other human beings during my workday and changed majors. However, now that I'm a little wiser, I realize that is a danger for most professions and that what I lack in human contact at work, I can make up for in my mission work and personal life. I am a proud member of Immanuel Baptist Church where I am active in our outreach and mission programs. I understand the importance of having a spiritual life and believe that we all should be co-creating a world where people are supported and pushed to reach their potential as opposed to held back, put down and pigeon holed. Even in these difficult times I am very optimistic about the world we will be apart of ten years now.

Life Inspiration - My most inspirational quotes come from W.H. Clement. The first is “anything the mind can concieve and believe it can achieve.” I love this quote because it correctly identifies that the power to create resides in each and every one of us and that as we are inspired by the world around us we are actively invited to be an active part in its evolution. The second quote is “tell everyone you know what you want to do and someone will want to help you.” It is the single most important step in bringing a project to life. By the time you have talked with the 100th person you will know if it will succeed and how to make it succeed. I have been very fortunate to have worked on many projects where these truths were manifest.

Program Goals - -Training, certification, employment, and earinings that will put me on a path toward financial independence as well as in a position to monetarily support my community development projects. -Insights into how we might utilize technology to better support community development. -Connections with persons in the field and industry that I can incorporate into my network

5 Year Plan - Managing an IT department for a mid-sized business. Principal owner of an Aquaponics enterprise that has multiple locations in Milwaukee, Principal owner of Lightspeed Neighborhood Technology Centers and lastly President of the board of directors for an organization involved in multiple community development projects around town. Married with two adopted kids.

Thao N. of Lynnwood, WA - 10/21/11

About Me - The future career that I plan to achieve is everything to me and it’s the only reason why I’m working so hard to maintain good grades. When I came to America eight years ago, my main goal was to learn English so that I could communicate with others. It was a big challenge coming to school without understanding the language. I tried harder than others to overcome this challenge, to adapt to this culture, and become successful in this country. My performance at school has always been good, in every aspect, despite the language barrier. I always have A’s and B’s, rarely C’s in school and always have positive comments from teachers. I have never had any bad records at school and have perfect attendance. On the other hand, I started to develop my interest for computers while learning English. My top priority now is to learn all about computers. After I discovered my interest for computers, I tried attending as many computer classes as I could at my high school. I was able to attended Digital Communications, Computer Applications 1 and 2, and Computer, Servers, and Networking (CSN) for two years. I have made the right decision of attending CSN. Through this class, I have earned more than twenty college credits from Tech Prep, earned my A+ Certification and Network+ Certification, and I had the opportunity to join Future Business Leader of America (FBLA) to show my potential and compete against other students from different school districts. At the Regional Conference, I have won second place in Technology Concepts and third place in both Networking Concepts and Network design. My current goal is to do my best in college, earn a high GPA average point upon graduating, to graduate within two years, and to seek for internships opportunities related to my future job to help aid my future career. I'm currently attending Edmonds Community College pursuing an Associate of Technical Arts in Network Technology Degree. I will then transfer to a four year university, preferably Central Washington University-Lynnwood, for a Bachelor of Applied Science in Information Technology and Administrative Management. Upon the completion of this Bachelor's Degree, I will then seek for a job in my field and continue to work towards a Master Degree in Network Administration. I also plan to open my own computer business after earning enough money and earned my Master’s Degree. I truly believe that obtaining high educations is the only investment for the future. For this reason, I had put my efforts into education throughout my school years and have never thought of giving up my education half way. Education is not my only focus, I am also searching for internship opportunities to help build a strong foundation for my future.

Life Inspiration - My most inspirational moment was when I heard from my aunt about a girl who graduated and earned her four-years college degree at the age of 22 or 23. She worked for a job right away upon graduation. She makes very good money, has her own house, family, and is living off indecently and freely. I inspired her hard work, diligent, and the great opportunities that she had. My goals are very similar to her. I wanted to finish a four-year college, work for a great company and make good money, and to buy a house and live independently; I wanted to accomplish all of these at her age. Because of this inspiration, I will work even harder and do my best in this program in order to achieve my goals.

Program Goals - I hope that this program could help me build my skill in this information technology field, and help me become a potential professional in this field so that I will have more confident in pursuing my dreamed occupation of becoming a network administrator. I want to be a great network administrator who is well informed with what she does in her job. I want to have a clear mindset with the things I do and to make minimal mistakes or no mistakes at all. From what I have learned from this internship program, I have great confident that my goals will be achieved; as long as I stay motivated, set high perseverance for myself, and continue desiring to learn then this internship program will be my great opportunity.

5 Year Plan - I see a picture of myself sitting in my office, a luxury and comfortable one, in front of my computer working extra hard on a project for a well-known technology company. Every now and then there would be someone coming to my office to ask for help with technology related problems. At this time I'm making very good money. I have saved up enough money to buy a big house, car, and living independently. My family and relatives are all proud of my accomplishments, and often visit me every now and then to see my positive progress.

Thaddeus R. of WILLIAMSTOWN, NE - 10/21/11

About Me - I am a the mid-stage of my career. I've had the opportunity to widen my skill-set throughout my career in multiple specializations, and I've enjoyed the diversity. Although I have been employable in many regions, I would like to acquire a higher level skill-set and put my full focus forward towards a very important next step. I am an excellent troubleshooter and contain a high level of common sense and logic which has helped me in my life and career. I am a natural achiever and look at every issue, every roadblock and every project as a challenge. I spend my off-times researching to conquer these challenges. I enjoy team efforts much more than singular. I'm a car enthusiast. I enjoy multimedia networked in every way around my house, gaming, being a soccer coach for my son's team and spending weekends down the shore in the summer with my family. I had our new house built 3 years ago. I have 6 computers/servers and had Cat-6 run throughout every room to have gigabit Ethernet all-around. I'm extremely passionate about computers and technology and really enjoy integrating it into all parts of our life. I'm always looking at what's coming next and spend a lot of time learning new technologies. I would really enjoy the opportunity to advance my career to the next level.

Life Inspiration - My most inspirational person is Benjamin Franklin. Franklin, in my opinion was the greatest American that ever lived. He was light-hearted, caring, and put others and his country truly first. All of his motivations were to create a better place for everyone that lived during his time, but more importantly, for everyone that lived after. He was a genius, but not just because of his technical intellect, but more so of how he used it and what he applied it to. In many ways, I compare myself to Franklin because of how diverse he was and how I am also the same. I am very good at many things and I can cross from being a technician, to a graphics designer, to a web designer, to a music producer, to putting an addition on the house or even pulling the engine out an out of a car. Franklin's diversity was in writing and literature, erecting public structures like libraries and fire departments, being a statesman and creating inventions to name a small few . He lit the streets of Philadelphia for the first time and he also opened the first Hospital. These are incredible feats. His accomplishments were monstrous and they all hand in mind, the helping of others and the establishment of a safe and secure country for us all to live. I question how one person could accomplish what he did in a lifetime. When the question was asked of who is my most inspirational person, Benjamin Franklin was my first thought as he was motivated to continue to make things the best he could until his death. I strive to be the same. I look to him as a perfect example of how great a human being can be and what they can accomplish if they put their full focus forward and just do it. That is why, he was in my eyes the greatest American that ever lived. How he achieved everything he did, with such integrity and true compassion for his fellow man, is what is so admirable to me. This is why he is my most inspiration person.

Program Goals - I hope that I can move out of an undefined and over-crowded job specialization and into a more secure, technical and lucrative position for my family's future. I am looking to use every resource I have to get the most I can out of this program. I want to be expert in my specialization and I want to make my employer look to me as a cornerstone and a person who can be relied on for any circumstance. I'm not unhappy with my current situation, but I'm very eager to move to the next stage. In today's world, that can be easier said than done and I am very eager to start this program to get myself to where I would like to be.

5 Year Plan - I see myself as a LAN/WAN engineer, completing this course and working in a higher level position. I look to have taken the skills and know-how I already possess along with my recent training at LAN/WAN Professional and be assisting the company for which I am employed to achieve to the fullest and enjoy profitability. I look to be on a consistent training track, sharpening my skills as new technologies are introduced. I look to be happy and secure and much be prepared for my family's future and for my son's education by achieving this level of certification. I would like to be considered an expert in what I do and be building the next information super-highway of the future. I plan to continue to exercise patience work diligently for my employer to be the best I can be for them.

LaVictor Y. of Murrieta, CA - 10/20/11

About Me - My name is LaVictor Yeager. I’m a graduate of ITT Technical Institute. I received an Associates Degree in Computer Electronics and Engineering and I am currently enrolled in the Bachelors program. I’m also a Marine Corps veteran. I served for 12 years as a journeyman electrician. I received recognition and was awarded a medal for the set up and wiring installation of the Marines base camp in Thailand during our Cobra Gold deployment. I’m very adept in calculations and problem solving. I am a very dedicated individual that believes in integrity.

Life Inspiration - My most inspirational moment happened during a deployment while I was serving in the United States Marine. We arrived in Thailand and it was my first experience in a third-world country. It was an eye opener to see how poor their conditions were. The things we take for granted in the US, like education or even childhood, they would die to have. At an early age a lot of children there are forced to walk the streets and try to earn some form of income for their families. It was a sad sight to see but a very humbling experience. It inspired me to try to be a better mentor to my children, neices, nephews, and all the other children I can affect.

Program Goals - I hope to receive an opportunity to shine for your company and bring an attitude of hardwork, persistance, mission accomplishment, and at the same build a rewarding career for myself. I hope to learn a skill set that I can build on and use to catapult my career. I hope to be a part of a winning team and be a major contributor.

5 Year Plan - I see myself being a main ingredient in a successful company. I plan to start my career in technology and once I get my foot in the door, learn something new everyday. I see myself researching to get proficient at my job and afterwards, striving to get better. I see myself learning the company during my first year, strengths and weaknesses, at the same time accessing my own. The second year, I see myself incorperating everything I learned to better the company and myself. I see myself being a major voice by the third year and a managerial figure by year five.

Samuel D. of Orlando, FL - 10/20/11

About Me - I am a highly motivated Army veteran who has always excelled when under pressure or in matters which involve troubleshooting, problem solving, and critical thinking. My passion for technology began as a child while working closely with my father who is an Electrician. I used to wonder what was inside of radios, TV‘s, and computers to make them do what they do. I was also fascinated with the idea of running and connecting cables to devices in order to make them operate and communicate with each other. I joined the military straight out of high school to pursue a career in Telecommunications. Throughout my military career I was educated and heavily exposed to computer networking technology and Communications Security. I was given many opportunities to apply my skill set with a range of different LAN equipment, topologies, and infrastructures while assisting with Joint Military Operations both CONUS and OCONUS. Once I was honorably discharged from the military, I obtained an A.S. in Computer Science and I also became a licensed Realtor. Naturally I gravitated towards the technology within the real estate company and took on the responsibility of installing and maintaining networks for the company throughout different locations around the city. I also provided advice and training to the company and Realtors on new software and equipment that could potentially optimize their business. I have come to realize that all of the knowledge and experience that I have obtained throughout the years is pretty much naked without IT certifications. So within the last few months I have obtained my A+ and Network+ certifications, scheduled to take my Security+ exam next week, and MCSE and CCNA over the next three months. I have been studying and preparing for the CCNA exam for the last 3 months. I am very interested in pursuing CCNP and CCDP certifications as well. I am a fast learner who is highly motivated and dedicated to pursuing goals in life and this program is the perfect vehicle to get me where I desire to be.

Life Inspiration - My father is the most inspirational person in my life because as far as I can remember he was relentless on any endeavor he set out to do. He always finished what he started, and he did it without cutting corners. He taught me the value of hard work and how it builds character. He also taught me to honor God and family and in doing so I can honestly say that they are a great inspiration to me as well! Overall he not only taught me life lessons but he led by example. Thanks to my father I am a very self motivated, hard working, intelligent, all around type of individual who looks forward to making great contributions to society.

Program Goals - I am looking to gain as much knowledge and hands on training as possible with LAN/WAN (enterprise) and Cisco technologies in order to become a Cisco Certified Network professional. Once that is accomplished and even along the way I will prove to be a very valuable asset to any IT company.

5 Year Plan - In 5 years I plan to have enough experience, knowledge, and IT certifications from this internship program to be able to choose between a career as a self employed independent contractor, consultant, or a Senior Network Engineer in a large IT corporation.

Nelson R. of Dayton, TN - 10/17/11

About Me - In brief, I worked my way through college. At the time I was an automotive technician. Within a year of completing my bachelor's degree I turned my interest to formally working in the IT industry. After just a few years of providing technical support to end-user's I decided to enter into self-employment providing IT support services. My tenure in self-employment lasted for eight years. I have worked with a number of corporations in a support capacity and would like to continue in a support role. I would, however, like to engage in a more intellectually challenging profession with an almost unlimited potential for growth. I am a voracious reader and highly self-motivated.

Life Inspiration - Perhaps the most inspirational person I've met was a man who was, for all practical purposes, a self-made man. His name was jack. Jack, while quitting school after the tenth grade, was both exceptionally practical as well as a man of extraordinary intellect. Early in life Jack quickly moved into a profession and with relative ease became a figurehead locally in his profession. Jack also picked up the craft of programming in C+, Visual Basic, FoxPro for DOS and Windows to name a few and was instrumental in the design and implementation of a computer program which is used today by the local nuclear industry. This would have been a significant achievement for any programmer and yet it was Jack who brought this to fruition. I recognize Jack as a man of significant strengths, discipline and intensity-of-purpose. Perhaps the most impressive characteristic of Jack's personality was his sheer discipline and dedication to whatever he put his hand to. Jack was truly an impressive individual. Jack and I became acquainted while he was initially learning computers in late 1997. We became very good friends. Sadly, Jack was killed in a motorcycle accident in 2002. I, to this day, count myself to have been both privileged and greatly enriched as a result of knowing and working with Jack. I miss him greatly.

Program Goals - I expect to realize an opportunity to engage in a challenging profession with excellent opportunities for both personal and professional growth. I have worked alongside many within this realm of IT infrastructure support and have found them to be highly skilled, professional, and a pleasure to work with. This has enormous appeal to me.

5 Year Plan - I anticipate that my skill set will have been extended considerably from today. I genuinely look forward to the coming changes and challenges that my career path will take. IT is an ever-changing and demanding profession. I have a demonstrated capacity and demeanor that lends itself to this profession. I enjoy the challenge.

Gordon C. of Rio Rancho, NE - 10/17/11

About Me - I am currently unemployed and have recently enrolled at National American University for a certificate in becoming a Computer Support Specialist. I have always been interested in IT work but really never pursued it until this past September when I enrolled at NAU. I know that this is a positive career change. I maybe 62 but still have years of work I know I can do. I love the outdoors and playing golf which both have been set aside to complete my schooling and moving to a new career in It. It has also been set aside because of the lack of work. I am also the secretary of the local Society of Manufacturing Engineers, Chapter 93.

Life Inspiration - I think my most inspirational people have been my parents who are both deceased. Because they had always knew and thought I would work hard to get ahead. I never realized it when I was younger and they wanted me to go to college and/or a university. In stead I went to a small technical school instead. Later in life I did get a degree in safety engineering and now I am back at school again to get a certificate in computer support. I know I would like to get a higher degree in this field as time goes on.

Program Goals - I am trying to start a new career in the IT industry. I know I may not be the perfect candidate but my work ethics and loyalty a company are superior to others I have worked with. I do think I would be a good choice as this type of work has become an essential part of the workforce and hopefully an employer will see that I am worthy of continuing to be active in the workforce. I also hope to become a excellent employee. I am good at learning new jobs and am even better when it is hands on. I always strive to be the best I can be and try to learn as much as I can while doing a great job and try to improve. At the age of 62 I do not think there is problem in proving that I am worthy of being employed as many companies have over looked what experience is worth from older workers. Given the chance to let myself be proven is all I can ask from anyone or company.

5 Year Plan - I think in the next 5 years I see myself as be a great employee and have a very secure future and advancing forward in a new career. As with anyone that will lead to secure future and a great retirement when I feel I am ready to retire. But would also enjoy being able to live life without the worry and feeling I am an accomplished IT person and know I am helping others with their problems and solving those problems.

Mike L. of Albany, CA - 10/14/11

About Me - I am a veteran of the Wireless/Cellular explosion that started in the 90s. I am a Electrical Engineer who got a job as an RF Engineer. I learned many technologies and rode the wave of this business. It was an exciting career while it lasted. It went from connecting with high capacity phone lines and Microwave transmission to connecting to the internet, essentially. The Cellular business has sort of merged into the internet business. The way my expertise is used now is not as fun and challenging as it used to be an to that I am looking for the next challenge. Since Cellular has now merged into the internet, I am looking into exciting new opportunities and technologies to continue my career. I think that a logical progression of my knowledge would be to get into LAN/WAN. I operate my home LAN with 3 PC computers, 1 Apple Macbook laptop, and iPhone, 2 printers, an internet jukebox, my home alarm system, and 2 large storage Hard Drives. I like the technology that allows me to connect a system together where I can incorporate many devices and manage them all. One day I want to build out my home network to connect to all of my appliances, including my heating system using RFID technology. This technology is very exciting to me. It makes me remember how excited I was when I worked in the height of cellular.

Life Inspiration - I will list a job related inspiration. I have many personal ones but the job related one is both personal and relevant to my work. I started my College career at a Community College. There I met who would be my mentor and room mate all through College. He was older than the rest of us. He lived a sort of wild life in the music industry but finally realized one day that he was too old for that and needed to change his life. I thought that in itself was pretty courageous. He was getting his Electronics Technician degree at the Community College we were attending and had plans to continue on to a 4 year school to get his Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering. At that time I was thinking of becoming a Contractor and taking a Building Construction degree. I watched how he was so determined. I thought to myself at the time that I didn't have what it took to get a Bahcelor's in EE. As I hung out with him and got to know him better, I discovered how determined he was. It was all or nothing for him. He ended up going to the 4 year school one year before I was planning on going. It was at that moment that I thought, "you know what? I am determined too! I can do this thing! I have it in me". With that, I changed my major, got down hard into the studying. I ended up getting to the 4 year school one year later. He and I ended up being room mates so he continued to mentor me about what I was about to face in all of my classes. He was the one who got me excited about being an Electrical Engineer. I am so happy that I did it. I was able to travel around the world and live in many countries working and implementing Cellular Telephone networks. I got to know many of these countries' cultures as a result of working there. It has been one of the best experiences of my life. I owe a lot to him for his constant inspiration. I am a better person because of him. He is why I am now looking to get into a great technology and put myself all in to learning and making my self a better person.

Program Goals - I would like to be an expert at LAN/WAN technology. I would like to apply that expertise to help Cisco grow into the future. I see this technology helping the Cellular world expand and manage their capacity issues. I would like to see how this program can help me see where cellular and LAN/WAN can go together. I would like to think that this technology will be around for a long time and it is the next step for me to get into an exciting technology that will grow and expand into the future.

5 Year Plan - I see myself growing and evolving with the technology, especially LAN/WAN. I see LAN/WAN evolving and complimenting many industries. I really like technology. I liked how cellular grew and is still growing. I think that greater opportunities lie in the connectivity world. To me there are limitless ways this technology can grow and help other technologies.

Peter T. of Greenwood Village, CO - 10/13/11

About Me - My name is Peter J. Tasch Jr. I am an extremely motivated and hard working individual with a background in robotics and machine design. I have second hand IT experience through my work experience at General Dyanmics Robotic Systems where I worked as a Senior Mechanical Engineer. I worked at GDRS from the time a graduated in 2001 to March of this past year. Presently I am working a temporary job until I am able to find a job within my career or within another career. Since all my experience is in engineering it makes it difficult for me to change careers at this stage of my life. I believe this program will grant me the opportunity to gain momentum within the IT industry which will inevitable make me a better engineer.

Life Inspiration - It is hard for me to define, or capture, my "most" inspirational moment. However, while I was working at GDRS I had the opportunity to work on many futuristic projects and I helped create company wide processes followed by the engineering staff. From an engineering design perspective I incorporated an industry standard within the IT field into my mechanical engineering work and over time the idea was used on multiple projects. The idea I had was to incorporate rack mount design into some of our robotic systems. I pursued this angle because the electrical and software engineers were always changing the system configuration during the testing phases of the programs. The rack mount design gave them the opportunity to mechanically move their electrical equipment around until they were satisfied. Once they were satisfied we were then able to go back in and design permanent systems to hold their equipment.

Program Goals - I love to learn and IT work is the latest & fastest growing technology out there. I hope to gain a better understanding of network engineering. I hope to gain experience in this industry to propel me into an early IT management position or to grant me a more desirable resume for my engineering pursuits.

5 Year Plan - I want to be a manager. I already have 10 years of professional engineering experience under my belt. For three of those years I served in a Configuration Management position. In five years I would like to be in a high level management position where I am able to be a mentor and decision maker.

Nicholas S. of Apopka, FL - 10/13/11

About Me - I'm 26 years old and I've been married for the last 3 1/2 years. I've always been interested in technology and computers specifically. I built my first computer when I was 12, and continued this hands-on practice of tweaking and upgrading components and software every year since I got my first job. I was in the Institute for Technology at Lyman High School, and went on to the University of Central Florida to further my education. After getting my A+ certification in 2007 while working at UCF, I found it best to head straight in to the work force. I have developed my growing passion for technology ever since. I also enjoy video gaming, amateur photography, and gardening. Currently I do freelance work on computers and set up audio/video home theater equipment as a small side business that I would like to expand in the future.

Life Inspiration - Dave Ramsey has been a particularly influential figure in my life. His EntreLeadership program, seminars, and materials have inspired me to succeed with my own future business in a way that I previously didn't know was possible. His philosophy about finances is not new, however it is revolutionary in an age where no one seems to understand how to not only live within their means, but how to prosper and give back to the world as well.

Program Goals - I look forward to developing new skill sets for career paths that thus far have been unavailable to me. I am excited about becoming more proficient in my work than I am now by earning these certifications and the knowledge that comes with them. Ultimately I anticipate that this program will help me establish new avenues in which to grow my business.

5 Year Plan - I expect to be operating my own business or to have acquired a more prestigious position than I am in presently. I hope to be able to pay off my house within the next 5 years as a result of my higher income, allowing me to travel the world with my wife and to nurture a business in consulting for network configurations.

Cory M. of Orlando, FL - 10/13/11

About Me - My name is Cory McDougall and was born and raised in the beautiful island of Trinidad. I moved to the US 9 years ago to further my education and completed the final 2 years of high school in Orlando, FL. I attended Virginia Tech to pursue my Bachelor degree in Computer Science and was making great progress until an unfortunate development arose and I was called upon to return home to look after my youngest sister. After her successful graduation of high school I have been attempting to resume my education and came across this wonderful opportunity. All throughout my life I have been immersed in technology. My father has, for as long as I can remember, been sharing his passion and knowledge for technology; making me the man I am today. I am an avid follower of all aspects of the digital age. While I am not an expert at any one item, I contain a very broad knowledge base in many areas. I have had the wonderful opportunity to work with several companies who further helped me appreciate my passion; from a small tech company overseas to major corporations such as Dish Network and Apple.

Life Inspiration - My parents are very inspirational person to me but to choose a single inspirational person, I would have to say my father. I have never come across a more dedicated and hard working individual in my life and I strive to model my life after him. He has been separated from our family for a large portion of his career due to the nature and needs of his job but has never failed to be there for us as best as he can. He is the reason I am actually such a “tech junkie”, his passion and tinkering nature rubbed off on me as I spent as much time possible around him learning the ins and outs of electronic devices. My desire to gain as much information and knowledge about a subject comes from him always pushing me as a child towards obtaining my education and doing well. Even with the opportunity to simply work and assist my family financially he encouraged me to forgo that option to complete my studies and become even more successful than he has.

Program Goals - The extensive training outlined by this program is exactly what I envisioned for myself when I began my pursuit for education. Cisco certification is highly respected and is definitely a worthwhile investment for any IT professional’s career and this program allows me to essentially “get my foot in the door” with true hands on experience and learning. Successfully completing this program is a top priority for me personally as I intend to continue to build my career in the IT world.

5 Year Plan - I see myself building upon and furthering my career in the IT field. With 5 years of experience coupled with proper training and hard work, I will be a reliable and dependable employee for the company and on track for higher managerial and/or supervisory positions. Being head strong and determined with only a passion for the best work being put forth will certainly enhance my credentials and benefit my peers.

Harpreet S. of Revere, MA - 10/13/11

About Me - My name is Harpreet Saini. I have recently graduated from an INDIAN university, Bachelors in electronics and communication. I moved to united states four months before and looking for a job which matches my education and skills.Currently working as cashier as a part-time to keep myself busy. I successfully completed my six months internship in one of the telecommunication company in INDIA, where I worked under a senior switch operator, from where I got interested to go further in this field of networks and communication.

Life Inspiration - Most inspirational idea or thing for me in life are these wordings said by the founder of Apple- Steve Jobs, he said "Remembering you’re going to die, is the best way I know, to avoid the trap of thinking you have something to lose. You are already naked. There is no reason not to follow your heart.” – Steve Jobs . These is the most inspirational thing I have ever heard in my life.

Program Goals - From this training program I will be able to make myself confident to make my place in the fast growing IT world . Where I can put my skills and education to benefit both the company and my professional life.This job world is a world of sharp and tech mind professionals and to keep a pace with this world I would really need to learn more and more.

5 Year Plan - In next 5 years I would really see myself at a good position in an IT company. I have hopes of taking on new challenges and advancing my career when it’s appropriate. However, I am focused on the job at hand, and the pace that any advancement happens will be determined by whether I have earned it or not. If I perform beyond the company’s expectations for as long as I’m needed in the current role, I would hope there will eventually be opportunities to grow in the organization.

Art B. of Houston, TX - 10/11/11

About Me - I work for a global software company implementing Next Generation Software (NGS) in Microsoft Windows Server environments. My main task is to install, train, troubleshoot and support the software. I also build XML Interfaces in the Microsoft Server environment and monitor the Asp.net framework using Apache, PHP and MySql. I work mainly from home but travel is sometimes necessary. I have installed this software in every continent on Earth.

Life Inspiration - I have traveled all over the world and I love to visit historic places. Chichenitza is an ancient Mayan Pyramid in the jungles of the Yucatan Peninsula and I wet there earlier this year. Once you clear the Jungle you come upon the campus of buildings that includes Chichenitza and the majesty of that pyramid is awesome. It becomes even more awesome as you follow the math the Mayans used to construct that campus as they understood it from their star gazing.

Program Goals - I have become increasingly interested in Cisco Networks as I see the LAN configurations my clients use throughout the world. Part of my duties is to talk to a local Network person when our software runs into issues regarding access. I have taken the full Cisco Academy course at Houston Community College and I loved it - but it was somewhat abstract to me because of the limited time I had to work in the Lab. I passed all my courses and I am looking forward to sitting for my certification. But I think this course will really help me with full immersion access.

5 Year Plan - I see myself building LANs for small and large companies and also creating security features in Cisco Networks for small and large companies and Data Centers. I love the power of a Cisco switch and the versatility of the Cisco routers. I have done some contracting work installing Cisco VOIP systems for BBVA Compass Banks, Bank of America, Halliburton, Hitachi and some small offies around the Houston area.

Anthony A. of magnolia, NJ - 10/10/11

About Me - I was born and raised in the Philadelphia/Southern New Jersey area. After I graduated High School, I attended Rutgers University for a year for Business Administration. I decided I wanted a more technical/hands on career so I then attended Control Data Institute and received my electronics certification. I started my career at Xerox Corporation as a Field Service Technician responsible for managing a customer territory, troubleshooting all hardware problems, performing preventative maintenance procedures and maintaining high customer satisfaction. I then became the Color Technical Specialist responsible for developing preventive maintenance procedures, troubleshooting software and hardware problems, balancing workload among team members and develop and maintain team inventory budget. My last position at Xerox was as a Production System Analyst responsible for developing high end printing solutions, applications and workflow processes in order to reduce expenses and increase efficiency and revenues for our customers as well as installing and maintaining Xerox production solutions in various network environments. I then took a position with GlaxoSmithKline as the Production Print Analyst responsible for managing the production of sensitive applications such as W2’s, 1099’s, payroll and Case Report Forms (drug studies). I was also the System Administrator of all equipment within the production department, which included Windows and Unix servers, Windows workstations and MACs. I was then promoted to a management position as the US Site Operations Support Analyst where I managed all systems within the Site Operations Organization as well as being Project Manager for the implementation of any new systems or upgrades along with various projects like the consolidation of the production department and the rightsizing of the office equipment fleet, which included 550 multifunctional printers throughout 3 states. My hobbies include sports, motorcycles and metal lathing.

Life Inspiration - The most inspirational person in my life was my father. He was a man who never complained and never made excuses. He showed me what it means to work hard and be a responsible, productive human being. An example of this is when he was diagnosed with Leukemia, he never complained or made any excuses no matter how badly he felt or how much pain he was in. He woke up every day and went to work right up to the day he passed away. At his funeral, one of the doctors treating his disease came up to my mother and me and said my father was the strongest person he has ever met and began to tell us a couple of stories about some of his treatments.

Program Goals - Although I have recently obtained my Cisco CCENT, CCNA and CCNA Security certifications, I have been unable to find employment in this field and I feel that the lack of experience in the routing and switching discipline is the reason. This program will help me grow and gain the credibility I need to get my foot in the door and help me realize my career goals. Because I am currently unemployed, I can dedicate all my time to learning and growing in this program. I knew it would be hard to change careers at this time due to the economy and job market but I will not give up until I have a job in this field.

5 Year Plan - My goal over the next 5 years is to become a Network Administrator/Engineer. I want to continue my studies by obtaining my CCNP along with a focus on Network Security. I currently have a lab setup in my home office with 6 Cisco Routers and 2 Cisco Switches. I have already spent over $5000 of my own money on equipment and training material.

William M. of Duluth, GA - 10/10/11

About Me - I am a 2010 graduate of North Carolina A&T State University in the field of computer engineering. I am always trying to learn new things and acquire as much knowledge as possible. I pride myself on having an extreme work ethic and a faithful dedication to any goal that I chose to pursue. I have over a year of professional work experience, mostly software based. I assisted as the database administrator for the Army ILAP oracle database on two internships with Vista Sciences Corporation. I served as a Tibco developer for Concept Software & Services working with both the TIBCO BusinessWorks and TIBCO BusinessEvents suite of products. Networking is an interest and I am eager to learn more about it.

Life Inspiration - I am a volunteer coach for a youth sports park in Lithonia, GA and seeing the kids grow-up right in front of us is very inspirational to me. Most of the kids come from single parent or less fortunate home environments, so to be able to act as a positive male influence is very rewarding. We have multiple sports aligned with the program so we get to see the kids grow year-round. This serves as motivation for me to teach these children how to be respectful, work as a team, and treat others with kindness. I love the work we do with these kids as well as the parents in order to strengthen our community.

Program Goals - I feel that a program like this can provide newly found knowledge and stability in the Information Technology field. In such a competitive discipline it is always best to learn as much as you can and obtain as many skills as possible. This program can provide an avenue to meet with other IT professionals while obtaining a new skill set.

5 Year Plan - I see myself successful in all aspects of life. I will always work to get better or reach a higher level, so five years from now the foundation I have laid today will be a good base for all endeavors in the future. Whether it is my family, faith, or my career the same morals that will drive me in the future are already in place. I see comfort for my family and a top position in the IT career field in my future, because those are the goals I have set for myself.

Matt C. of Highlands Ranch, CO - 10/09/11

About Me - My name is Matt Craig and I am married with 3 children. My oldest is a senior in high school, the middle is a freshman in high school and the youngest in the 4th grade. I have Bachelor of Science in Information Technology/Business System Analysis. I have 17 years of experience in sales, marketing, and consulting in hardware, software, healthcare, and staffing industries. I was recently laid off back in May 2011 from my position for 4 years as a Senior Sales Executive for a specialized software company in the energy industry. I consider myself as a self starter with the ability to manage and grow a territory. I work efficiently and with little guidance and enjoy the daily challenges of the technology industry. I have managed complex enterprise solution sales including; first point of contact, product and PowerPoint presentations, RFP response, prospect proposals, contracts negotiations, etc. Additionally, I have experience in project management, writing case studies and white papers, product training, and sit on several steering committees for new product development and other various projects.

Life Inspiration - I think one of the most inspirational technologies is the Smart phone. The technology of mobile email, Internet, texting, etc I believe has made one of the biggest changes in the world. This technology has changed how people globally live their lives. The ability to check your email, browse the Internet, and transmit text and pictures from anywhere in the world is very inspirational to me. It shows me that if you believe that something is possible it can be accomplished.

Program Goals - I hope to get several things from the program. First and most important, I am looking to learn a marketable skill that employers need. Cisco certified professionals are in high demand in just about every company. Second, I am looking for new career path that is challenging, in high demand, and every changing. Third, I am looking for a stable and recession-proof position with a forward thinking company. Finally, I want to earn the credentials for a solid position and to provide for my family.

5 Year Plan - I want to be working for a solid, forward-thinking, technology company at the Director level. Currently, I am consulting for a start-up company that manufactures DVR for the security industry. The LAN/WAN experience and Cisco certification will help solidify my role in the young company.

Toby F. of Fayetteville, NC - 10/09/11

About Me - I built my first Heath Kit Short Wave Radio Transceiver when I was in ninth grade. Since then I have been repairing and building electronics. In fact this interest led me to pursue an Associates Degree in Electronics. I began building and working on computers prior to The Windows Operating system. Now, I repair and build computers as a hobby and a weekend job. In addition, I repair music amps and other electronic components. Last, I have my SBCA (Satellite Broadcasters Corporation of America)certification. My personal interests are playing the guitar, fishing, Networking and building model airplanes.

Life Inspiration - My ninth grade physical science teacher got me interested in the field of electronics. He purchased the Heath Kit Transceiver and I assembled it. The teacher and I were friends. We shared many interests such as physical, earth science and astronomy. We spent more time together outside of the classroom then we did in the classroom. He got to know me very well and showed me respect, caring, and knew I was a “hard-working” student/person. He had great confidence in my ability to follow instructions, because when you assemble electronics you must follow instructions to the letter. Electronics is a very unforgiving hobby. Sometimes the smallest mistakes can cause the greatest failures.

Program Goals - I hope to gain a greater understanding of the new evolving technologies. This will help update my skills for some of these technologies. Second, the certification in CCNA will be of benefit in today’s job market. The job market has turned into a technology based work environment. Third, it will help connect 21st century learning for jobs now and in the future. Fourth, the CCNA certification will connect Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education incentives with my training. In the future this will help connect businesses with schools.

5 Year Plan - In five years I would like to be working as an IT specialist for either a business corporation, university or school system. Secondly, I will update up my skills by attending online classes as necessary. Lastly, I would like to own my own business in the IT field.

Mohamed H. of Fairfax, VA - 10/09/11

About Me - I graduated college with a degree in Economics and started off in the finance industry as a banker, before I realized that my true passion is and was always the tech industry. I love working with computers and technology, and so I made the switch into the IT industry amid a recession and took a pay cut but haven't looked back with regret ever since. I got some certifications to add to my self taught knowledge and got some junior level administration jobs till I worked all the way up to what I'm doing now which is a Senior Systems Admin position with a small local IT services and consulting company. I enjoy being challenged, enjoy learning, and eventually want to get into hardcore networking and cyber security.

Life Inspiration - I am inspired everyday by this one particular idea that if your make your job your hobby, you'll never have to work another day in your life. I think about this every morning as I do what I love and excel at it. I'm not quite at the 'perfect' job that I am aiming for, but the work I'm doing and the education I am receiving is inching me closer. In the meantime, I am loving the journey, because I do enjoy what I do, and the more and more I begin to enjoy it, the less and less like it work that it will seem. Thus culminating one day to the ultimate satisfaction of being one of the best in my career field and being able to proudly and happily say "I can't believe they're paying me to do this because I enjoy it so much!" I am glad the inception of this concept in my mind happened at the ripe age of 25 and not later, because it gave me a chance to switch to the career that I will enjoy being in for the rest of my life.

Program Goals - My biggest gap of knowledge is Cisco networking. I don't even have a CCNA yet and can just barely configure a switch. So I was hoping to remedy that with some Cisco certs. Out of this program I hope to get more than what I'm currently bargaining for by not just getting a CCNA but advancing my Cisco knowledge and skills to a CCIE and go even further from there. I know that to get to be a network security expert, one must have a solid understanding of Cisco networking technology, and this program is it.

5 Year Plan - In 5 years I see myself working for a private sector government contractor, or for a government agency, working to protect our cyber security grid. Future wars are being waged on the cyber front as we speak, and I want to be doing something meaningful by being a part of the group of people that protect from information espionage and sabotage. It is truly where I see myself and hope to be in 5 years or less even.

Tonda P. of Oklahoma City, OK - 10/09/11

About Me - I have been a programmer for over 25 years. In 2004, blessed with an inheritance I returned to college to finish my degree. I graduated from the University of Texas at Dallas with a B.S. Degree in Software Engineering. I graduated Magna Cum Laude with a GPA of 3.81. After graduation and a brief time traveling the national economy crashed, leaving me without a job. Since I removed myself from the work force for 4 years to attend college it became difficult to re-enter the workforce at my age. My degree program did not prepare me for the available job market at that time and now my skills only appear to be outdated. I know that I am qualified to learn any skill I desire, but the current job market requires specific certifications.

Life Inspiration - During my second semester at the University of Texas at Dallas (UTD) i took a class in computer mathematics. This class turned out to be all about theorem proving. Now, I have always done well with computational mathematics, graph theory, etc. but proving theorems was difficult. I had an instructor who knew how to present the material and taught me how to visualize the problem of solving theorems. I made an A in the class and the exercise taught me that I could learn anything I put my mind to. This instructor enabled me to learn how to learn.

Program Goals - I hope to receive the certifications required to obtain a high-paying and rewarding career in Networking and IT. I have some basic knowledge needed for this career field but do not have the required certifications to be considered. I know that if I obtain these certifications I will be able to excel in this career field.

5 Year Plan - I see myself as a highly qualified network analyst and networking security consultant for many years in the future. I hope to be more than just another IT support person, but a qualified consultant that helps design, build and monitor large scale and complex networks.

Raj S. of Manhattan, IL - 10/09/11

About Me - I consider myself a person of high integrity with a strong motivation to succeed in my career. I have worked in high-tech fields of A/V for many years. Currently, I am working out of Kraft Foods Corporate as a Video Conference/Telepresence Support Specialist(contract ends in a few weeks). I work with Cisco/Tandberg technology on a regular basis and its very exciting work. This is the first time in my life where I really got a chance to work hands on with this amazing technology and be a part of where its going. This also opened up my eyes to a whole new world of opportunities with Cisco "knowledge (certifications and technologies). I am currently trying to get a job with Cisco and subsequently found this amazing internship opportunity. This is the perfect opportunity for me to fast track my path to success in IT. I cannot afford the training on my own, but with something like this, it alleviates my concern while still paying the bills/rent ($45k -$55k would suffice - equal to my skill set and also keeping the fiance happy) and furthering my career path along the way. I am currently making around $52k and its working, but more money wouldn't hurt! I have a true passion for developing technologies and constantly educating myself to stay on top of emerging tech. I am excited to start a career in high level IT where I can stay on top of the trends and be the leader of the new Cisco revolution, its clear that this field is only going to grow and I want to be a part of it.

Life Inspiration - The most inspirational person in my life would have to by mother. She has consistently pushed me to strive to be better than I am now. Her struggles in life really show that hard work and determination pays off. Especially if you know what you want and how to get there. She lost her parents early on in life and was forced to be an independent person with help from her brother, who has also been very inspirational. She came to US from India in the late 70's with one pair of clothes and $7 dollars in her pocket. Now she owns two laundromats and is very successful with both of those. The humble beginnings of starting off as a waitress in a buffet restaurant to being a successful business owner in a long struggle, but well deserved, really shows me that it can be done. To top it off, she suffered from a stroke on Mother's day 2010 and is miraculously recovering at a fast rate. Considering all the fight and struggles that she faced throughout her life to get to where she is now, and to have this big speed bump, she still maintains and survives. That to me is more inspirational than anything I have ever seen or been witness to. A lot of other people I have known, would easily give up at this point, but she never quit striving. Her journey inspires me to work even harder at what I do, to show her that I am capable to succeed and WILL in fact succeed. I just need the right tools and the path is clear to me. I cant wait to see where the future can take me.

Program Goals - I hope to advance my skill set and knowledge to a level that is highly competitive in this emerging market. Even in the downtime of our economy, I have noticed that Cisco and its current demand is consistently growing at an exponential rate. This means two things - 1) The demand for high level IT positions with the right certifications will expand and 2) these emerging companies will need these trained individuals to fulfill these positions for a long time to come and want permanent status, rather than people looking another "job". I want to be on top of the curve and have the knowledge and skills to succeed, and after reading the description, I strongly feel this is the right path to take.

5 Year Plan - In five years, I would love to see myself in a supervisor role, or perhaps some sort of advanced leadership role where I am making upwards of $120k+ and really helping this field excel. This would allow to me to really "pay respects" to what got me to that point. That would be taking this first step to get into this program and get accepted into something that will be clearly beneficial for multiple parties, but mostly myself, in securing an amazing career in IT.

Sinita N. of Orlando, FL - 10/09/11

About Me - My name is Sinita Nelson. I am new to the IT Profession. I was laid off in 2009 working in the Auto Industry for 15 years. With all the banks moving out of South Florida, my career as a Sr. Credit Analyst had vanished. I was left to re-invent myself and start all over again. Computers was always a secret love to me and the little I knew was self taught. I found out the government was offering training in computers to help put people back to work. I applied and was accepted to a Technology School on Boca Raton, FL. For one year, I studied the MCITP Track for Windows Server 2008, Enterprise Administrator. It was very hard for someone like me that was not on the same level as my classmates. But, being unmployed had its greatest advantage for my days and night were comsumed with studying. In a class that started out with 25 people, I was one of 8 people left in the program when it was over in April of 2010. I was the first in my class to receive my MCITP certification. However, with the economy, jobs were and still are scarce. In August 2010, I was able to land a job as a consultant with Florida's Turnpike Enterprise as a Windows Administrator. While I was searching for a job from April till August, I also took a CCNA Class at the same school. I am not certified as yet because I never got to finish the class as I had to move to Orlando for the position I hold now with the Turnpike.

Life Inspiration - My most inspiration moment I found in myself. I found when life threw a curveball with being laid off, I didnt sit at home and sulked at the thought of not having a career anymore. I looked within myself to see what else I was good at.

Program Goals - I hope with this program, if accepted to finally get my CCNA and focus on continuing my education in Networking. Although I work in Administration, my love is in networking. When applying for school, I was told I should learn Windows first before doing the CCNA class for it would make learing networking even easier. I have not found that to be the case. My goal is to first get my CCNA, then CCNP and see from there.

5 Year Plan - I see myself in 5 years as a Network Professional. I understand hard work and dedication. I am a good and fast learner. I feel that at this stage in my life, I have found my calling and am so eager to learn and give back. I would also like to teach what I've learned to others.

Cody H. of Houston, TX - 10/08/11

About Me - I am currently a Genius (Certified Macintosh Technician) at Apple in Houston. I have worked for Apple for about 4 years now and feel like time is flying because I love what I do so much. I became certified in March, but I have also been doing computer support, troubleshooting and repairing computers since I was about 8 years old. I am ready to take my career to the next level and have been searching to find the best field to go into and networking seems to be it. I love a challenge and would love to be able to be apart of this program as I do not have any college education so far but i do have my Apple Certification and am wanting to get more to set myself apart from others in the industry.

Life Inspiration - I would have to say that the most inspirational person to me at the moment is Steve Jobs. He is a true visionary and innovator and was not a follower of the norm or what everyone else is doing. He had a vision and did everything to make it possible in the end. I want to be apart of something amazing and use my natural problem solving abilities to do something fun, fast paced and exciting.

Program Goals - I want to learn everything I possibly can so that it will make me that much better when I am using my newly attained out in the field. Technology has always been my passion and I want to get further education to advance in the technical industry for better paying positions.

5 Year Plan - I see myself a successful engineer, employed with a well known company solving difficult problems or daily challenges. I see myself making a much better salary than I am now which will help me do the things I want to be able to do for my children and family.

Robert G. of Washington, DC - 10/07/11

About Me - I grew up in Ohio where I got my Bachelor's of Science degree in Math, Computer Science, and Accounting from the University of Mount Union. I began my career with EDS in their System Engineer Development (SED) program. The SED program was very respected program throughout the technology industry. Part of the program consisted of an intense 10 week training program in which you had to pass in order to keep your employment with EDS. Only about 50% of the people in my class successfully completed the training. While at EDS, I worked on General Motors contracts supporting Oldsmobile's marketing and incentives departments. After four years, I felt I needed a change the industry that I was supporting so in 1993, I moved to Washington, DC to work on the MCI account. After EDS closed the MCI account, I moved to the Marine Spill Response Corporation account where I began working with in a Mac and Windows environment using client server technology. I became an MSRC employee in 2003 as their Senior Information Systems Specialist. I automated their data backup and disaster recovery procedures and helped write the business continuity plan.  I wrote custom applications and provided user training and support. I was the Tier-III support for both local and remote employees sharing shared a 24/7 on-call rotation. I supported network connectivity, software, and hardware on clients and servers during steady state, oil spills and natural disasters. I was part of a fast recall emergency response team for Hurricanes Ivan, Katrina, Rita, and Ike.  I shared a 24/7 on-call rotation for all servers, desktop support, DBA, and network connectivity. I began to learn Web applications when I was laid off. I took this opportunity to spend year helping my mother, making her house accessible for to remain living there. I also began classes to obtain a graduate certificate in information security and possibly continue to a Masters degree.

Life Inspiration - One of my high school math teacher's who taught several of my math classes was energetic, positive, and very humorous. He made learning a tuff subject fun by injecting humor into the lectures. He made me decide to become a math major in college, and become a math teacher like him using humor as a learning tool. I also could tell that he enjoyed what he was doing, and because of that he did a good job. When I began college a major of computer science was just in its infancy. As I began to take some of the classes, I found that I enjoyed it and was good at it since both math and computers follow logical sequences. I then decided to take my major a different route majoring in math and computer science and work in those fields rather than education. My teachers traits still remain with me today being energetic, positive and humorous when working with colleagues and supporting users. I enjoy my working in IT and will naturally do a good job at it.

Program Goals - My past experience has allowed me to gain a broad understanding of mainframe and personal computers, application programming, network connectivity, and the overall functions of an IT department. I would like to continue to grow professionally gaining in-depth knowledge or specializing in LANs/WANs including IT security. The program would also allow me to transfer knowledge and experiences with peers, fostering professional colleagues within the industry.

5 Year Plan - Combining this program with my graduate knowledge, I would be an expert in my ability to deploy, upgrade, maintain, and secure networks. I would be providing solutions to secure and advance network capabilities to a company or group of companies. I would continue to gain knowledge and learn new technologies by attending classes, users groups, and conventions.

Mark O. of San Antonio, TX - 10/07/11

About Me - I am a 30 year old goofball. I am currently married to my wonderful wife Amanda. My life for lack of a better term revolves around her. It has been more than a loving relationship it has been somewhat symbiotic so to speak. For 6 years our relationship is one of taking care of each other of course, but somehow we turn it into a competition. We try to always find new ways to express our love for each other. As for me, I was a Marine for 8 years working as a DMS Tech which entailed maintaining first Exchange 5.5 and Windows NT Servers (yeah i know i'm old). Eventually I got my hands on some Active Directory Servers along with Exchange 2003, 2007.

Life Inspiration - My grandfather for adding such a wealth of knowledge and common sense about the world around me, and Mr. Almond and Mr. Manroe both are Teachers of Chemistry and Science respectively who shown me that their is such a complicated world out their as which we humans need to explore carefully. Most recently it has been Richard Dawkins, Carl Sagan (yes I know he is dead), and Christopher Hitchens who have all shown me we can be a more effective human race if we cast away our old archaic beliefs and accept that we as a human race need to evolve together for we are spread across the planet faster and more efficient than any other organism.

Program Goals - It's more than a career that I am seeking. What I hope to gain is much deeper than that. I hope to finally come to grips with my identity as a person. All my life I have had a fascination with everything humans have created. From cars, to computers everything fascinates me. I noticed during my training that their existed a whole new "world" so to speak in discovery when it came to network communication and computer communication. Everything from SQL, to HTML, to Ruby Red, to Python a world of languages was at my fingertips that I can learn and it didn't require me to travel.

5 Year Plan - I am ambitious. I want to be CIO of a corporation that actually help promote the advancement of human existence, without destroying the common tech marketplace by way of not caring about humans. That does not include Apple, any Bank's, or any other company that does not promote the advancement of human beings both inside and outside the company.

Henry R. of Lake worth, FL - 10/06/11

About Me - My name is Henry Ritter Jr. and I am 26 years old. I have recently graduated from Berks Technical Institute located in Wyomissing, Pennsylvania. I received a Bachelors degree in specialized technology / internet/networking engineering. I am also a veteran of the United States Marine Corps. where I served a year and a half faithfully. I was stationed in Camp Pendleton, California 1st Battalion 1st Marines 1st Marine Division. I have a strong drive and passion for the I.T. field and I am very dedicated to bettering my career and life.

Life Inspiration - I would have to say the most inspirational person in my life is my father. He also is a veteran of the United States Marine Corps and he served in the Vietnam Conflict. He made it out unharmed and then was in construction for over thirty years. He lost his father when he was 17 and then his wife ( my mother ) when i was only 6 months old. Through all of the pain and tough times he still did what he had to do to make sure I was ok and lived a good life. He showed me how persistence and focus can overcome all challenges and I owe him my life for that.

Program Goals - What I would like out of this program is a steady income while still moving forward with my I.T. skill set. From what I have read this program seems very pertinent to what I want to accomplish and can be very beneficial to me as well as the I.T field.

5 Year Plan - I see myself in five years, at a minimum, administrating a medium to large size network with multiple devices i.e. routers, switches, servers, client pc's etc. making at least $70,000 - $80,000 a year while still trying to obtain more knowledge of the I.T. industry.

Ramon G. of Riverside, CA - 10/04/11

About Me - My name is Ramon Guzman I have been in a few different fields from doing a bit of graphic design, Project management, Design and Engineering and sales and estimating. I am a self motivated fast learner and a team player ready to take on any challenge as I have in the past just being thrown into certain situations without all the proper training but I always get the job done. I am very coachable and ready for another change, I have had minimal experience with networks mostly just maintaining them (adding new users, creating temporary folders and users, etc.) but I do see myself getting more involved in this field.

Life Inspiration - I recently became unemployed due to the workflow in the company I was working for and due to cut backs and down sizing I lost my job. I have always had a high interest in IT work as i have been working with computers for over 9 years now, I have an average knowledge on computers and I have always wanted to learn more and become an expert in computers and I see this field exploding and I want to be a part of this explosion, I am hungry for knowledge and I am ready to begin my journey to becoming the best IT person I can be and making a big impact to the future.

Program Goals - I am hoping to learn as much as I can and be able to apply these skills and the knowledge I will obtain to be used in a real world. I know there are a lot of things to learn and they are always changing but that is why schooling and hands on experience is very and highly important. I want to learn how to create manage and maintain networks just as any other experienced IT person does.

5 Year Plan - I see myself if the opportunity is offered to me and i receive proper training i could definitely see myself as an IT person managing many networks and keeping clients happy and networks running well working for your company. I know I will learn many things and use them as they are needed and maintain my learning as technology keeps evolving from the system types and of course all the settings.

Kevin M. of Atlanta, GA - 10/03/11

About Me - Well, I'm 23 years old and have been immersed in computers ever since my family bought a computer back in the mid 1990's. I got my first PC when I was a freshman in high school, and haven’t looked back. I find the interconnectedness of the computer fascinating, knowing that a system can grow and be updated, and such dynamic architectures can be unique to each application. New technologies that emerge I feel I must immerse my energy into it. I’ve always been told that knowledge is power and these days I can’t think of a better phrase to describe it. When one of my friends has computer trouble – hardware, software, and network – they come to me to get the problem fixed. I have had a personal education in working with computers, and a desire to learn and build my knowledge. Working on and fixing computers gives me a since of purpose.

Life Inspiration - What inspires me is that I think it is fun to work in the IT field, knowing that my actions can help people that I’ll never see. Working behind the scenes to achieve a common goal. Yes, I am inspired by the stability that Cisco can provide, but the reason I get out of bed in the morning is because I ask myself, “What can I do differently today to make things more fun?” Of course protocol and regulation are withstanding.

Program Goals - I hope to find a career that matters; I want to think that the systems I install, inspect or otherwise maintain make a difference. Connecting a video conference from London to Beijing will close the deal to have the new seals on the Boeing Dreamliner’s main doors manufactured so that the cabin pressure is maintained at the maximum FCC mandated cruising altitude of 30,000 feet, or something like that…

5 Year Plan - I see myself as the network administrator of a system of LANs/WANs, preferably in a government facility where high traffic demands and high data security are the norm. Or at a university or an institute/libratory that requires real-time data transfers and regular network upgrades and updates. Or I’m that guy that travels the world to administer the connection of a soccer game in Spain or the U.N. Conferences in embassies around the world. That would be me in five years.

Michael K. of Sherwood, AR - 10/02/11

About Me - I am, foremost, a factotum. I enjoy learning and gaining a myriad of skillsets and abilities. I love a good puzzle, especially something unconventional that also requires focus and concentration. I have rebuilt computers from spare parts, and have set up LANs for small businesses; I can honestly say I understand the theory of networking and have knowledge of the theoretical layers involved in troubleshooting. Some of my favourite hobbies are tinkering, reading, and writing.

Life Inspiration - I flew from San Diego to Dallas Ft. Worth as an unaccompanied minor at the age of 6. I was instructed to be "a big boy", as such, I was. I handled the flight well, but at the same time it truly changed who I would become. My childhood after that was not filled with fun and games, but rather chores and work. I had developed a critical set of morals by an early age. The most influential thing in my life is my beliefs and my moral compass. I believe one should always be honest with others, forward with your issues, show integrity in all things, and ultimately be an amazing human being.

Program Goals - I wish to gain further technical skills that can be used to get into an industry I can truly excel and grow in. I have studied for my CCNA, but have never taken the test. I feel that with a little extra backing, I do not have to worry about the cost of the program as much.

5 Year Plan - In five years I would like to find myself working to find an appropriate school for my 7 year old daughter while continuously striving to provide a steady income for my family. I have worked for 7 years in the telecommunications industry, and have provided a slew of accomplishments to the companies I have worked for; I would now like to apply it into something with more potential.

Jason F. of Sacramento, CA - 09/29/11

About Me - I'm 26 years old I'm working at a job that will be out of business in the next 2 years. I'm looking to make a career move, but not to just any job. I want to be happy and really satisfied with the career path I choose.I want to be in a position where there opportunities to move up the ladder in position. I'm a very hard worker never had any attendance problems at any job and alway makes sure I'm able to work with all different types of people and differnt personalities. I have one goal is mind and it is "I wanna be the best in my field of work".

Life Inspiration - The most inspirational person in my life is my mother see took care of me and my brother without any financial assistance from my father.She didnt it on her own to show her 2 sons how strong she was even though we went through some hard times. Now I would like to return the favor to her by showing her that her son can be very successful in the career path he chooses.

Program Goals - I hope that this program will provide me with the tools and knowledge to be a successful engineer .I hope this program pushes me to the limit to show some actual issues I would be dealing with if I actually had the job. This program will be a huge stepping stone for me because after reading the comments on the website it sounds like it has change many lives for the better and thats why I applied .

5 Year Plan - I see myself in 5 years being very happy with my career, I feel thats very important.I will be one of the best engineers in california .I feel even after working a 12 or 13 hr day I will tired but satified to finnally be apart of something that means alot to me and my fellow co.workers.I can picture myself making around $70,000 per years and a true leader in my field of work.

Rashad T. of Sacramento, CA - 09/28/11

About Me - I am a recent graduate of ITT Technical Institute that majored in Computer Network Systems. I received my Associate's of Science, Information Technology- Computer Network Systems in September of 2010. I have working with Cisco Routers and Switches in the Lab environment for 4 years and feel that I have a strong ability for Cisco IOS CLI. I am currently looking for work in the IT industry but haven't had any luck so far. At the moment I am studying for my CCNA while working full-time at a nursing home. I am ambitious, loyal, and dedicated. And I am a fast learner that has always been able to pick up new technologies quickly.

Life Inspiration - The most inspirational moment in my life is when I was in during the summer between the eleventh and twelve grade I took a summer computer class at my local community college. We had a guest speaker and he spoke with the students and explained how he was working a dead beat job because he dropped out of high school and was never able to go to college. He told us he got fed up with it, obtained his GED, and sparked an interest in the IT field so took night classes for several years until he was able to obtain his CCNA and CCNP certifications and start his career as a Cisco Network Engineer. That is what made me really want to stick with computers and specifically computer networking, since I happened to enjoy it and it isn't working if you enjoy what you do and get fulfillment from your work.

Program Goals - I hope to get real world, hands on IT Networking experience in a business atmosphere. Reading from books only get's me so far, I happen to be the type of person that excels at doing a task. I read it, do it, then try my best to perfect my craft. As a recent graduate in this economic climate I feel that since I am lacking experience it is hard for me to get in the door to gain the experience I need. It's a cycle I hope to break with this great program.

5 Year Plan - In five years I plan to already have my Bachelors in either computer networking or computer science, working full time in at an IT company or in the IT department, pursuing my Masters in computer science or computer networking, and to have multiple Cisco and Microsoft certifications to my name.

Crystal S. of Richmond, VA - 09/28/11

About Me - I have 7+ years of IT and Project Coordinator experience and have worked with Project Managers in various types of industries. I am self-motivated and work well on my own. During that time I've had valuable opportunities to interact with IT professionals through state government and federal government presentations, conferences and business meetings. I am a hard worker and very reliable and I think that my characteristics make me a great asset for this internship. My personality is easy going so I get along with most people across many levels. I have great communication skills and I am very comfortable with public speaking, especially when presenting products and services. With all of the above information, I think I will be a great fit for the internship and for future employment at a local CISCO certified firm.

Life Inspiration - My most inspirational moment was when someone I respect told me to go back to school for Information Systems and that I would do well and have a great career!! This was my most inspirational moment because I'd been thinking of what I should study in school and I recieved my answer later. It is also inspirational because it reminds me that there is hope for me to obtain great training and employment even in a tough economy.

Program Goals - I want to be a sought-after Cisco certified professional that will be respected and in high demand throughout the Richmond, VA area. In addition to being a Cisco certified professional, I want to be skilled in several positions such as LAN/WAN administration, engineering, analysis, consulting and project management. After completing the program, I would like to recieve compensation ranging from $72,000 to over $120,000 per year while helping area firms meet their LAN/WAN needs.

5 Year Plan - I see myself working for a Fortune 500 or Fortune 100 firm in an upper management position promoting LAN/WAN professionalism. I see myself attending IT related conferences and seminars along with keeping up with the latest trends in corporate technics, LAN/WAN, engineering and administration for IT related projects.

Teakia S. of East Windsor , NJ - 09/26/11

About Me - I am a college graduate with a Bachelors of Science in Civil Engineering and an MBA in Project Management. After receiving my Bachelors I worked in the construction industry as a Project Manager and Junior Project Engineer. Working in this field I gained experience observing contractors' work, preparing technical and non-technical reports, creating cost estimates and monitoring projects's scopes, schedules and budgets from their initial to completion stages. While not working, I often serve as a volunteer, project coordinator or project team leader for various community projects. I often utilized computer software programs to formulate charts, schedules and informational data sheets. Currently, I am searching for a postion that will allow me to use my current knowledge in addition to learn new and innovative concepts in the IT management and design industry.

Life Inspiration - Some of my most inspirational moments have been during the times that I volunteer. The most recent was my mission trip to South Dakota. A group of friend and I visited Mission, SD for one week to perform volunteer services for a community organization called Tree of Life Ministries. The goal of the entity is to provide shelter, saftey, food and clothing to the people living on the Souix Indian reservation. While in SD, we fixed housing foundations, installed porches, doors and decks and replaced electrical and mechanical appliances. We also greeted residents in the welcome center, prepared meals and assisted families as they received clothing and items for shelter and safety. This experience has inspired me to live life as much as possible; do not take advantage of the smallest joy; be happy with the people and things that you currently have in life because while you may be able to get more, there is often someone with less.

Program Goals - If selected to participate in this program, I hope to gain knowledge of IT operations, development and management. I intend to meet valuable intellectuals that will work with me in teams to successfully project tasks. I also have hopes to use all skills I learn to obtain certifications and licenses in the field and find employment with a firm that promises individual growth.

5 Year Plan - Within the next five years I envision myself working in a managerial position with authority to make executive and educated decisions. In addition, I see myself being a mentor to those students and entry level employees that will participate in the same program and career path that I once traveled and offering valuable advice to assist them in their efforts to achieve their goals. I would also like to travel for leisure as well as work assignments.

PAUL W. of Cordova, TN - 09/26/11

About Me - I am 29 years old. I have been in the electronic maintenance field for about 10 years and am currently employed with Lockheed Martin. I have always loved computers and consider my self to be very proficient in both Mac and Pc operations. I spent 4 years in the United States Army where I learned the basics of electronics and a lot about life in general. The experiences that I lived through let me know that I was put on this earth for a reason. I also know that happiness and love for what you do make everything worth while.

Life Inspiration - My most inspirational moment in my life was being able to help my parents out in their time of need. It felt really good inside to know that I could be there for the way they were there for my siblings and I when we were growing up. The look from my parents spoke volumes to me. I did not realize how much "thank you" meant until I heard it from my parents. That little moment in time constantly reminds me that I have come so far from where I started at. Now I want to continue on a path of success and let it take me where it will.

Program Goals - I would like to gain a more thorough understanding of the intricate details involved in setting up and maintaing a large network. I do not have a degree but I work as a contractor alongside the military in overseas locations so I know and understand the value of having these types of certifications. This opportunity would open up several more opportunities across a wide range of fields and also make me more marketable in order to obtain a quality job in the states.

5 Year Plan - In 5 years I see myself in two situations. The first scenario is working for a large corporation and helping field new equipment in order to push the technology and make sure that the product being delivered is the best that it can be. The second is having my own business that puts me in direct contact with the customer that I support on a smaller and more personal level. Computers are here to stay and will only get better in the future and want to help people get the most out of the technology that is available to them,

Jose L. of Texas City, TX - 09/26/11

About Me - I am an IT professional in the business for about 11 years. I have worked my way up from an entry level technician to where I am now. I have passed on other training and education opportunities to focus on other aspects of my life. I am now ready to focus on advancing my career and education. I am a father of five and have made several sacrifices to ensure that my family’s and home’s needs have been met. I am now looking to make necessary sacrifices to advance my career and reach my professional potential.

Life Inspiration - I pull most of my inspiration from my family. From the time my children were born, I was inspired to provide and lead them by example. My parents have inspired me by showing me that one can make something out of nothing with a lot of hard work and sacrifice. They showed me how to put the family’s needs first and one’s own needs second. My sisters have shown me how to achieve higher education and professional status with character and integrity through sacrifice and hard work. Now, I too stand to move farther forward and reach for higher goals. I have achieved great things. I will achieve greater things. I will be a positive example for my children!

Program Goals - I hope to be able to combine employment and education and training. I have always been a "hands-on" type of learner. My problem, or hindrance, has been the lack of time and/or money to advance my education or technical training. Having a family, it has been difficult to allocate both time and or money to my education or training. I hope that with this program, I can work and learn and get certified simultaneously. I have read the CCNA books, understood the principles, but never had the opportunity to get hands on experience. I never tried to test for my CCNA due to lack of “real world” practice. I hope to bridge this gap with this program.

5 Year Plan - In five years, I would like to be a certified CCNA with a few years of job related experience under my belt. I would like to work on higher level IT disciplines and have higher level duties than what I currently perform. I would also seek higher certifications and strive to gain higher level duties and responsibilities. I don’t necessarily wish to be the head of a corporation, or leader of an IT group or department. Rather I am very comfortable being a strong #2. I feel more comfortable being the hands-on skilled technician carrying the workload. I enjoy making sure that IT issues get resolved and thus maintaining system and network integrity, connectivity, and productivity.

Justin G. of Beaumont, CA - 09/26/11

About Me - My name is Justin Garza and I'm 28 years old. I live in Southern California and own my own home. I currently have 3 weeks left of college until I graduate with my bachelors degree in Network Communications Management. I have a son who is 1 years old and am teaching him to play hockey. I currently play hockey as well and am a huge La kings Fan! Right now I work for a small company in San Bernardino as desktop support and a Jr. Network admin. The company recently switched to cloud services and now it took all the fun away from me in getting hands on experience in a networking environment. I am the only child in my family to go to college and this means a lot to me because i want to set an example for the rest of my brothers and sisters and also my son. I have been a tech guru ever since the beginning days of Aol and when i finally made the decision to go to college it was perfectly clear what i wanted to do, networking. This industry absolutely blows my mind away and I get excited when I learn how everything works. I went to college taking online classed because of my busy work schedule so I took the route where dedication had to be present, and i got the job done. My only wish is to get more hands on experience because i want to put the knowledge together with the hands on training, I know once this happens i will excel even further in my IT abilities. I was granted the IT position here where i work in July, it is a smaller company but like I said now that they are using cloud services so now the experience is limited. The 3 months I did get to utilize my skills though was probably one of the best experiences I can ask for in getting some real world hands on knowledge. I know this is my passion because I think about it every day. I will reach my goals and become a talented individual in the field some day.

Life Inspiration - One of the most inspirational moments that I can remember is when I was 18 years old. I wanted to play junior hockey and at the time was independent financially. I did not have many believers but i had my mind set on doing what i wanted to do. I went to a try out in Los Angeles and ended up getting scouted by a coach from a team in Oregon. He Wanted me to fly up to his camp the following week. I was able to gather up enough money for the camp and the flight myself and flew up there alone. Out of 80 players half was cut from camp and it was narrowed down to 2 teams of 20, i made the last cut. The last day of camp there was an all star game between these two teams as a last chance to showcase your skills and receive an invitation to play for the team. The game was played in front of about 5,000 fans in the stadium in the city of Eugene Oregon. Before the game stated we stood on the ice as the national anthem was sang, I will never ever forget the feeling of standing on the ice and knowing how it felt to accomplish was my heart set after. This feeling was of inspiration and I will never forget it.

Program Goals - I hope to get real world training and hands on experience because I can do all the labs in the world but it does not compare to the real thing. I also hope to gain more advanced knowledge and real world information. I know school teaches everything but i would like to know what really goes on in the real world. I want to gain more hands on skills such as network setup, and also more cisco IOS configuring. I really want to excel and become a master in the cisco IOS. Lastly, i want to be the best I can be coming out of this program and be the one to get a high paying job as soon as possible.

5 Year Plan - In 5 years I see myself already a professional in the field with great experience and pushing the envelope moving up in the IT ladder. I see myself as a more rounded professional as well with advanced knowledge in many areas. I also see myself taking care of my family and enjoying life knowing I have financial security.

Joseph C. of Highlands Ranch, CO - 09/23/11

About Me - In December 2004, I decided to join the United States Marine Corps (USMC) with a Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) of Ground Radio Intermediate Repair Technician (2846). I have extensive experience with the maintenance of communications electronics, systems troubleshooting and repair (down to component level), and the management of teams that perform such tasks. I graduated at the top of my class in Marine Corps Communications Electronics School (MCCES). Having to place within the top twenty percent on the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) to be considered for training and a successful Secret Clearance to attend, MCCES was an incredibly intense nine-month and fifty plus hours per week training evolution. With a minimum passing grade of eighty percent and two failing assignments getting a trainee kicked out of the course for life, this particular curriculum has one of the highest drop-out rates in the military. After completing training it took me less than two months to graduate from repairing ancillary electronics devices to shortly thereafter become a subject matter expert maintaining hundreds of multi-faceted communications systems containing type 1 (CCI) Controlled Cryptographic Items (even across different military branches and civilian contractors). With over five thousand hours of soldering experience and countless hours interpreting schematics and troubleshooting, many of my skills have been acquired while supporting innovative communications systems capable of networking and secure voice and data communications over many different waveforms. Frequency hopping, UHF, VHF, microwave, satellite, remote (pass-through), PA systems, telephony, and many proprietary operations just to name a few. Designing and conducting regular training quickly became a regular activity for me. I believe this is why I maintained a perfect safety record for those under my leadership and myself for my entire military career. The mishandling of CCI equipment or documentation is dealt with very severely through court martial, hefty fines, prison time, and is an extremely meticulous process. That is why, after proving my level of competence, responsibility, and professionalism while leading a team of twelve to twenty technicians and conducting Quality Assurance, I was appointed the CCI manager. This began my entry into mid-level management where I conducted project and personnel management operations.

Life Inspiration - My most inspirational moment was during my military deployment in Timor-Leste (East Timor) in October 2010. This experience was more of a time period then a specific moment. A suppressed society that shares its small island with their multi-century enemy Indonesia, Timor-Leste, situated approximately 600 miles south of the equator and 400 miles Northwest of Darwin, Australia, is a poverty-stricken nation of the likes I had never seen. Although I have been to many other poor and wealthy countries and even combat before my experience in Maubara and Ocussi, East Timor, nothing has had such an impact on me more than what I witnessed there. To bring perspective to their situation it is important to know the average household income is roughly $300 USD (converted) per year. Having arrived to the region in US Naval ships, (LCACs) Landing Craft Air Cushion (known as “hovercraft”) would take us to shore. My assignment during this two-week exercise would be armed security. Protecting the interests of the friendly population, dignitaries and personnel was required for successful diplomacy and a positive conclusion to our country’s first direct relationship with East Timor. Our intelligence indicated a level of uncertainty with the possibility of rebel attacks and friendly local populations. Our initial mission was to establish a communications network with central and unit commands, reach a predetermined grid point and secure any hostiles. Once our bivouac site was secure, we would make camp and begin building a school and providing medical triage for the local population. As we arrived on the beach and began staging our equipment in preparation for the foot march to camp, from my concealed position overlooking all activity in the area, I began to notice large groups of curious onlookers gathering throughout the small village within the shaded clumps of fauna and around the beach levees. It was clear they were awe struck and had never seen anything similar to what they were witnessing at the time. As I lie in my position in a full combat load of at least 135 pounds in the shade, I felt as if I was in an oven, baking in the sweltering heat and humidity. During preparations for departure from the beach, we staged a large staggered patrol in two columns, spacing out armed personnel within the formation for protection. It was obvious I was not the only person suffering in the unbearable heat. We stepped-off and our short two-mile march would seem like an eternity until something much unexpected happened. I began to struggle to keep my composure, the burning of sweat filling my eyes; my environment took over every thought, requiring the conscience control of every cell in my body. We turned onto the main road leading through the village, roughly the size of a large cycling path, to see the sides of the street lined with hundreds of people cheering for our arrival. This marked the beginning of my two-week lesson in constant humility. Although a cretin feeling of pride manifested as the crowd cheered, the surrounding despair quickly made our affliction wretched. We passed straw homes built from strands of coconut tree leaves interweaved with twigs, malnourished adults with the fully-grown stature of the average western 13-year-old child, and scores of starving villagers with no clothing or shoes. Those with clothing wielded the word Disney or cartoons of their well-known characters. We eventually arrived at a rundown school compound near the village center. The regard of our current misery turned into remorse as it instantly faded and seemed completely egocentric. Our enlightenment had only begun at this point. Starving livestock roamed the village freely. A single boney cow, a few pigs, and goats that made me wonder if they would even survive long enough to fill a plate. As the days led on, moral was increasing. It seemed everyone had found a way to deal with his or her angst and fill a roll. As some built the school, others performed medical miracles, literally saving multiple fragile lives every single day. Our supportive activities were tireless and unrelenting, happily putting in 20-hour days. Sleep and food became unimportant because I would eventually go home. Taking time to entertain the hundreds of always smiling yet starving kids was possibly the most satisfying experience of my life. However, choosing between that and giving them two of my three rations every day is a difficult distinction to make. It was common for people to pay hundreds if not thousands of times more, of their asking price for a craft or good. After all, they are still paying a lot less than anyone would back in the states. In Timor-Leste, I saw humanity at its finest. From a group of Marines and Sailors, men and women, who decided nothing, was too much to give. Unselfishly giving everything, they could muster to help a group less fortunate. To visibly starving children who never stopped smiling, it is all a bit much too truly comprehend; compassionate, gracious, benevolent, virtuous, inspirational, and heroic! Sacrifice seems barely a word anymore. At the completion of our mission filthy and exhausted, we still wished there was more time. Time to give, teach and heal.

Program Goals - I hope to be able to showcase my skills. Regardless of all the training the world has to offer, it is useless in this highly competitive job market until it is proven that a person possesses the marketable skills for their career field. Having many of the certifications available puts emphasis on what someone knows but is also geared towards specific skill sets. I believe the certifications and training that can be obtained with this internship will offer the ability to define marketable skill sets and highlight career paths for the individuals who complete it.

5 Year Plan - In five years I see myself leading a deserving company into the forefront of innovation by utilizing my leadership and management experience, understanding of network systems, network engineering, electrical engineering, and theoretical concepts of each. I believe the ability to understand entire communications and data systems from their conception and intricate circuitry, to their administration and end-user experience will charge me with a unique perspective of their possibilities.

Ricky B. of Louisville, KY - 09/23/11

About Me - My name is Ricky Bistarkey, I am 27 years old and a single father. I have been very interested in networking since high school. I went to Jefferson Community College for 3 years, and completed there cisco networking progam. I was top of my class and found myself helping the other students. I do believe there is a lot more me to learn & is very eager to get the chance to learn more. My son is 5 years old, & raise him alone has caused a set back in my education. I have been working full time to provide for my family & being able to put my son in a good Catholic school. Now that he has started kindergarten, I finally have the time to focus on my education to better our lives.

Life Inspiration - My friend Josh Vetter has to be the most inspirational person in my life. He is the one who introduced me to the world of networking, and always told me if we work hard enough we could make $70,000 a year. Josh grew up in a small family that never had much money. His dad worked for a grocery store and his mom babysitted full time. His parents couldn't afford to give him the things he or his two sisters wanted, just what they needed. Josh knew if he wanted something he had to work for it. Josh worked everyday from the time he was 17, and went to night school after high school. He sacerficed a lot, but know is married with a beautiful son, two cars, his own home, & a career most would dream of having. Looking at him showed me that if he could do it, why can't I.

Program Goals - I hope to get a lot out of this program. A great stable career is the most important thing I would like to get out of the program. Being able to have the knoweldge to set up, run & operate any network for any company would be a great achievement. Hopefully this program will give me the opertunity to finally get me & my son our very own house. Giving my son his own room with the space to focus on his school work, & watch his educational dvds. Getting rid of all the distraction that are around us both now & haveing the stabilty of our own home would be my greatest achievment so far.

5 Year Plan - In 5 years I can see myself, working for a company helping them upgrade & improve their network to better their company and staff. In 5 years, I will be spending my nights studying for my CCIE. Finally takeing a week long trip to Disney Land with my son & future wife, if I meet the right person, & haveing my one acre, 3 bedroom house & 2 car garage.

Pedro S. of Atlanta, GA - 09/21/11

About Me - I’m tech savvy person who enjoys technology and what benefits it offers to people in general. I’m shy yet I speak my mind when I know things are not right. I have been interested in technology since I was a kid. I was one of those kids that enjoyed breaking a toy and seeing how it worked. I decided to pursue a CAD degree since computing comes to me fairly easy and I wanted to learn a different trade, but at the same time never forgetting my love for technology. I may not have a degree in computers or networking, but I consider my knowledge of them to be on par with that of an above average user.

Life Inspiration - Most inspirational moment was seeing my first meteor shower. Why, because my father loved to watch Star Trek in the evenings and as kid growing up, my dad was the one person I admired most. After seeing what the heavens hold and recalling back to how futuristic the show was, I wanted to do the same. But, not as astronaut or explorer, I wanted the technology to do whatever I wanted to do. After Star Trek NG came out it further cemented my idea of what role technology was going to play in our or my future.

Program Goals - I hope to further expand my knowledge of technology, in this case LAN/WAN, and integrate it with my other knowledge of computers. Since my objective is to integrate computers into homes and businesses. I need to be able to understand how this technology really works. When it finally comes full circle I can use my CAD skill and LAN/WAN to design or simply integrate computers flawlessly.

5 Year Plan - In five years I want to own or operate my own business, somewhere in the area of computer repair and networking integration. I believe, as most people do, that technology is here to stay and that no matter what our own humanity will push us to the point where if you do not use technology you will get left behind. I want to be on the forefront of integrating technology into homes. i.e.: estate-wide server systems and automation

James H. of Hampton, VA - 09/18/11

About Me - I started my career in the IT field almost 14 years ago when I joined the military. After getting out of basic training, I was assigned to a unit that lacked a number of specialized IT personell. I knew very little about computers(meaning barely knowing how to sign on to AOL to access the Internet)and with a little bit of IT training prior to joining my unit, one of my first jobs was to configure network equipment. With some assistance from more experienced personell and on the job training, I was able to teach myself how to configure routers and networking equipment. I later was assigned to train junior IT personell to configure the equipment but was the main person to ensure connection, monitoring and troubleshooting issues for the equipment. Upon leaving active duty, I attempted to continue in the civilian sector working with routers and other networking equipment but I was not informed that most companies required that you hold a CCNA or higher certification regardless of experience in order to obtain the job. I continued to persue the vision of working with routers by contracting as an entry level help desk technician and having the opportunity of working my way up to that level. I also attended a technical school to obtain certifications that would help me with this persuit. The technical school, though excellent, did not have the equipment or "live" environment that could simulate what I would be working in when obtaining a job with a company. I contracted for several years then was hired as a full time employee once again taking an entry level help desk position with the vision of moving up to LAN/WAN Support role. During this time, management has always informed me that from the day I started, I was known to "hit the ground running". I am still to this day, persuing the ultimate goal to work as a LAN\WAN Administrator.

Life Inspiration - The most inspiring thing for me is the fact that I always have co-workers and management looking for me to further improve things for the department or company that I am supporting. I have managed to assist companies with backlogs that have been attempted by others but was unsuccessful

Program Goals - With the education along with hands-on training, I look to obtain the knowledge of the new technologies that have developed since I last worked with the equipment. In the process,refresh my knowledge from when I did work with them. I look to been seen as a serious candidate when applying for LAN/WAN position or continue with the company that will be working with me to achieve this goal.

5 Year Plan - Due to having prior IT experiences with networking equipment and in the IT field in general, I look to be serving in upper level IT Management to further improve the Network infrastructure and provide advise or inspiration to less experienced personell. I also look to continue building knowledge to further support the Networking Infrastructure.

Benson S. of Berkeley, CA - 09/15/11

About Me - I am an optimistic and enthusiastic 32-year-old who is ready to begin a my career in the IT industry. I have a son thats 3-year-old I raised my son by my self I was born in haiti came to thee u.s when i was 3-year-old. After graduating from high school I chose to attend A.T.I career training center.I also made friends and had experiences that I will carry with me throughout my life. After finishing A.T.I I became to work the stadium. Although it has been fun and I have learned a lot, I am ready to close that chapter and become an IT professional.

Life Inspiration - The most inspirational person in my life is my son. What is so inspiring about him, is he make me will and determination to never settle and never give up. I never had a mom or dad in my life time. I was raise in forster homes. That has taught me the value of hard work, perseverance, and kindness. I never settling, i learn that hard work and perseverance will take me far in life.kind, and independent person that I am today.

Program Goals - I am hoping to learn as much as there is to offer about LAN/WAN. Electronic Engineering Technology is what i major when I applied to A.T.I, and I always wished to start working in my career it instead of working for the stadium. I am hoping that I can learn IT skills so that may use them to help others. I want to learn skills that will help me to excel in the IT world, and help me to become a better, more efficient worker.

5 Year Plan - In five years, I hope to see myself in my third year in an IT position for a company. I see myself working with people and making connections to improve the company and how it reaches its clientele. I would like to be established in a position where I am growing as a professional and setting long term goals for myself and the company I am working for

Asma A. of San Jose, CA - 09/15/11

About Me - I attained a Bachelors Degree in IT (Computer Network Engineering) from Dubai Women's College in the the UAE and currently live in San Jose, California. My academic program included curriculum from the internationally recognized Cisco Network Academy Program, where I have taken important courses such as CCNA, CCNP and Advanced Network Security. I have also taken a lot of computer science courses such as HTML, Javescript, OS Linux, Design a database using Microsoft tools (Access), and website designing using Dreamweaver. In addition to that, I have had many business related courses including organizational behaviors, ethics, and PMP. My work experience in Dubai includes an internship at UAE telecom giant "DU" and the multinational oil company Schlumberger. At DU, I provided a three tower cluster with telecom services such as IP Telephony, IP TV, xDSL and Landline telephone. I was responsible for planning, designing, and implementing the complete network. I have configured layer 3 switches and firewalls and subnet the network using VLSM. At Schlumberger, I was responsible for cabling the network that was established and documenting, monitoring and troubleshooting the existing network. In terms of my personality, I am flexible and can cope easily under pressure. Dubai is a very multicultural and multilingual city and I am very comfortable working in these environments. (I'm fluent in both Arabic and English). I enjoy working in teams but also have very strong leadership skills. I am very excited about this opportunity and I hope I can get the chance to be part of it.

Life Inspiration - One of many that have inspired me is Carlos Slim Helú--chairman and chief executive of telecommunications companies Telmex and América Móvil, which in 2010 was Latin America’s largest mobile-phone carrier. I relate to him because his parents were immigrants from Lebanon to Mexico and he has accomplished a lot--considered the wealthiest man in the world 2011--regardless of the difficulties he or his family faced as immigrants. I am currently living in US and have faced similar challenges, and I am doing my best to accomplish my dreams and goals to have a better life and future. When I read about Carlos Slim, I got really inspired and I'm positive that I can follow the path he followed with enough patience and a lot of hard work.

Program Goals - To gains the skills and knowledge to attain important certificates such as CCNA, CCNP, CCID and etc. I want to enrich my skills and abilities and have the opportunity to apply them in work environments. I want to be marketable and ready to be hired by important organizations. I want to fully understand the concepts of LAN/WAN/VLAN, etc. and be able to demonstrate them with confidence. I want to be familiar with different technology terms such as OSPF, BGP, EIGRP and more. I am hoping that I could gain enough knowledge that will qualify me to develop new IP protocols. I want to be known as computer network geek among my friends!

5 Year Plan - I see myself working in a managerial position at an IT Fortune 100 company in the US. I'll work 150% to help my company achieve its objectives and goals. I would also love to teach a computer networking course in any institute as passing knowledge is one of my essential goals. If I was fortunate and could achieve all of this, I would love to start up my own telecom company and provide the best telecom services in the country.

Bruce G. of Puyallup, WA - 09/15/11

About Me - I am currently enrolled at ITT Technical Institute in Seattle, Washington in the Computer Network Systems program and am scheduled to graduate in December 2012. I will be furthering my education in the Network Security and Cyberhacking program offered in the Bachelor's Program at ITT. Prior to my current education program I spent 14 years as a carpenter and the last 2 years as an elevator apprentice for Thyssenkrupp Elevator. Working for Thyssenkrupp Elevator was the first time I was introduced to LAN cabling. This was and is our primary communication for elevator calls.

Life Inspiration - The most inspirational moment in my life was the day my son was born on July 28, 2006. For most of my life I had just lived for myself. But to see this gift of life be presented before me made me realize that I have the opportunity and pleasure to give to someone whose needs far outweigh my own. I have never felt so much love and pride for someone as I do my own son. He has a brought a deeper meaning of life for me and helped me to see the world in a newer and positive way. Loving somebody else more than yourself helps you not dwell and be selfish about your own issues in life. My wife is about to give birth to our second son in November and I am looking for to having another blessing enter my life once

Program Goals - By attending this program I want to gain the necessary experience that will make me a qualified technician and successful competitor in the IT industry. Cisco is the top contender in the industry for their network routing and for that reason I want to attain the certifications in CCNA, CCNP, and CCIE in routing/switching and security. When I am finished with this program I want to be completely equipped to handle any challenge or job that is put before me.

5 Year Plan - In 5 years I will be finished with college and working as a Security Technician, whether it be for a large corporation or as a consultant. I plan to use the education that I attained through LANWAN Professional and ITT Technical Institute to make these goals possible.

Stephen P. of Costa Mesa, CA - 09/15/11

About Me - My name is Stephen Pardini and I'm 24 years old. I am originally from Hong Kong, China and have spent the last 6 years living in Southern California. I went to Biola University for 4.5 years and received my B.A degree in Sociology. Throughout my time in university I was looking to get into a career in the field of criminal justice. However, as time has passed me by after graduation a year and a half ago, I have realized that criminal justice is not the right field for me due to my personality and other factors as well. For the past six months I've been rediscovering myself and have come to a decision on what career field I have a strong desire to get into. After a lot of searching and careful planning, my desire is to get into to the Information Technology field as a networking professional. The reason for this is because I have always been proficient in the area of computers since I was younger, and since Information Technology is a growing field it would be a great career for me to get into. I also love gaining knowledge in new areas, and since technology is constantly changing as time goes on I believe I can excel in the area greatly.

Life Inspiration - The most inspirational person in my life is my fiancee, Danica. She has been constantly supporting me during my time of self searching and she definitely sees the potential that I have to do great things in life. If it wasn't for her support and presence in my life I would probably still be struggling to find my way in life.

Program Goals - I hope to gain the knowledge and experience that is necessary out of this program to become a networking professional and to be on track. Since I have basic knowledge in home network setups my goal is to learn from this program and to take my current skills to a new level. My hope is that by the end of this program I will be ready to immerse myself into the networking field and further my career in Information Technology.

5 Year Plan - If I get accepted into this program I see myself being a highly skilled networking professional 5 years down the road. I also see myself being someone that people look up to when they have questions about networking or any general questions about information technology. I also see myself managing others and being a leader in the networking field to guide those below me to greater success.

Carles E. of Rodeo, CA - 09/15/11

About Me - I was born and raised in Oakland, CA,left CA in 1988 traveled halfway around the world during Architecture, love sports football especially looking forward to a new challenge this way I am applying for this training program. I have be in the field of construction for over 15 years and looking forward to learning what LAN/WAN can teach me in this training program. I will finish this program and make everyone proud of my success in this training program.

Life Inspiration - The most inspirational thing that has happen to me is working with my father in construction for over tens years before he died. My father showed me a lot as far as making sure that whatever I did I did it to the best of my ability and during it right the first time. I know with the knowledge over the year of being in Architecture that this program will just give me more knowledge of what has change in the field of Architecture.

Program Goals - I hope to get a career that I can advance in and make my own business one day and to help people like have their dreams come true just I did with mine. I have worked with a lot of great companies in my life that has showed me how to build and create great building and foundations around the world. I love learning to make fantastic things and knowing I had a part in making it.

5 Year Plan - I see myself having my own Architect business one day and help the world advance in technology in the near future. I look forward in having the best business in the world of Architecture. Being able to have all the materials I need in my own business that I do not depend on other companies to supply me with materials and being able to run my own company finances.

Mark R. of Santa Ana, CA - 09/14/11

About Me - I'm an IT pro with a solid background in hardware and network troubleshooting. I made the change from MIS manager to working to the provider space at PacBell and Qwest. Since being laid off at Qwest as part of a post merger 300 head count reduction, I have been doing a lot of different jobs , and more recently consulting. I have been married for 22+ years, and have 5 children.

Life Inspiration - There was an incident in 1983 where Russian Migs shot down a Korean Airliner. When I saw that on the evening news, and the transcript of what the Russian pilots were saying was displayed on the bottom of the TV screen, I knew that was what I wanted to do. So I joined the Air Force and got myself into the Russian Linguistics school and graduated with honors. Even though in the end I did not end up doing that actual job, the success I achieved, and the life lessons I learned in the process have served me well. I know that in most things in life, with prayer, hard work and the ability to consistently show up I can be a winner.

Program Goals - There was a time when I probably could have passed the CCNA by virtue of the amount of hands on experience I was getting. The problem is I never made time to pursue any Cisco certification. After the bursting of the dot com bubble and the, I haven't had the resources. I would love to come away from this program with the hands on practical experience AND the certification that many feel is really the gold standard in the Industry. I truly understand the value of Cisco Certifications, and would love to have those credentials.

5 Year Plan - I would really like to get the credentials I need, and work overseas. After 3 to 5 years, I would like to get training credentials and start a network professional training program of my own. I would like to be able to offer training services in remote and difficult areas, to give hope of a better life to people in countries with developing economies.

Andrew S. of Las Vegas, NV - 09/14/11

About Me - My name is Andrew Smith. I live in Las Vegas Nevada and have so for 6 years. I am originally from Idaho, went to school in Arizona and graduated with a bachelors degree from Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff Arizona. I am 30 years old. I am married to a wonderful woman with no children yet. I work for a local Golf Association as an IT and customer service representative. I enjoy sports, music, and social interaction but am mostly interested in technology.

Life Inspiration - My most inspirational person is my father. My dad started his own company in 1985 from nothing and for 21 years he has been able to grow that business into the backbone of our family. With his hard work and success he has been able to provide all my family members with an education and financial support. All of this while still being able to provide himself and his wife with a lucrative and fulfilling life. If one of the questions were "Where do I see myself in 10 years?" I would tell you I see myself following in my inspirations footsteps, owning my own technology company.

Program Goals - I feel that I am a very technically savvy person with interests and capabilities in many fields relating to computer technology. That being said, I don't have any certifications or formal training to showcase that skill on a resume. I feel that this program will not only give me the certifications to show off my skills, I feel it will teach me the missing pieces I need to become a successful employee in the IT industry.

5 Year Plan - If accepted into the program, I see myself working hard to complete the internship and training so I can land a job with an company as a Network Administrator somewhere in the Southwest. My goal is to gain 5 years of experience in the industry because I feel it would like help me to become a Senior Administrator and provide myself and my family a sustainable and fruitful life.

Jackie R. of Douglasville, GA - 09/14/11

About Me - My name is Jackie Roberts and currently I am transitioning out of the Army after 9 years of service as an Information Systems Operatory/Analyst. I have an Associates of Arts in General Studies that I earned through the University of Phoenix in 2009 and now I am working to earn a Bachelors of Science in Information Technology with an emphasis on Information System Security from the University of Phoenix that I will have completed by February 2012. I am also Security + certified. I am married to a firefighter and we have two beautiful boys that are the joy of my life. For fun I enjoy watching movies with my family, exercising, and fishing. I am very passionate about learning as much as I can about technology so that I can secure a better future for my family.

Life Inspiration - Someone who has been a true inspiration to me is Lieutenant Colonel (LTC) Melissa Williams. She is a true professional that is technically proficient and a leader than anyone would follow. She is able to balance her career with her family with ease. LTC Williams is always positive and insists upon having social meeting on a regular basis with her work family. She values her subordinates and makes sure that they know how much they are appreciated. I hope one day I will be as graceful as she is in a position of elevated responsibility.

Program Goals - From this program I hope to advance my career by learning what I need to earn a CCNA Certification. It is important that I get hands on practical experience to back up the certification so that I can begin a lucrative career. I have varied CISCO experiences all ready, but I feel that I still need a lot of improvement. This program is an excellent opportunity that I could not pass up. The Army has given me varied experiences, but I have not had stability in what my position required because it was always changing. This program will give me a solid foundation that I need to tie in all my prior learned skills through the military to get a truly rewarding job in a career field that I love.

5 Year Plan - In 5 years I see myself working for a company that I love and that values my expertise and experiences. I will be a valuable asset to this company because I will be a subject matter expert in my field of work. I will have a much higher paying salary and excellent benefits. I will be able to take my family on fun filled worry free vacations, and I will have more time to spend with them daily than I do now. By then, I will also have earned a master’s of science degree in information systems technology and many more certifications.

Mandeep P. of Hope, IN - 09/13/11

About Me - I am a student at Purdue University studying in their School of Engineering as a computer engineer. I am also thinking about getting an MBA afterwards. I am a member of the Society of Women Engineers and have been a member for about 2 years. I am really friendly and respectful with people. I have worked at my parents owned gas station for almost 5 years as a part time job while going to school as a full time student. I know how to deal with people and have excellent social and customer service skills.

Life Inspiration - My father is the most inspirational person to me because he is also an electrical engineering who studied in India and has taught me to set my goals high. My father has taught me to never give up and achieve your dreams through education and motive. My passion for engineering was learned through my father and my motives are to never give up and achieve success through my hard work and dedication.

Program Goals - I hope to get some experience through this internship and get a feel of engineering in the real world. I want to get my hands in the IT field and share my knowledge with LAN WAN Professional company. I hope to become more skilled and knowledgeable with the companies work and technology. Also, I am hoping to maybe find a permanent job with LAN WAN Professionals once I am completely done with my schooling.

5 Year Plan - I see myself working in a successful engineering company in 5 years. I have always wanted to work for Microsoft Corporation but I want to get some experience in before I start there. I see myself as a successful computer engineer that will share knowledge to make companies more profitable and technologically updated.

Errol S. of Lakeland, FL - 09/12/11

About Me - My name is Errol Stephens II and I live in Lakeland,Florida. I was a former caregiver to my father for many years (approx June of 2000 - June of 2006) He had three major strokes and needed 24 hour at the time of his death. A few months before, I was attending a correspondence course at Penn Foster College,(Then Education Direct), in the Auto Repair Technician Certificate Program. At this time, I switched my degree and school to get my Associates degree in IT at Kaplan University, but ran int complications that once again required me to change schools and go for my Bachelor`s Degree instead. I am currently doing very well and have obtained 126 credits with a 3.69 GPA. I would really like the chance to have a career for the first time in my life and do something I love.

Life Inspiration - One of the most inspirational moments so far is many of my classmates and friends that started school with me are no longer pursuing their goals due to failing classes, health problems, or other reasons, but I am still hanging in there and doing very well. An inspiration to me is my mother because she has always taught us,(myself & siblings), to strive to achieve our goals, "and nothing beats a failure, but a try".

Program Goals - In truth, I hope the sky is the limit in this profession because everything in our world today deals with computers and their networks. I have taken several IT courses being that my concentration is in Networking. The two current courses I am taking are: IT300 Computer Networks & Communications, and IT329 Network Infrastructure Design- in this class we are designing a network of our choosing which is the third in a series of courses (IT326, IT327, & IT329). I chose to continue building a network for my target organization of a local cable company from the previous two classes and have learned a great deal about network installation, configuration, and implementation.

5 Year Plan - I see myself at a company or organization using the skills I have learned so far from school, and those I will acquire through training & experience with the experts in the field. I look forward to being a part of a team of highly skilled individuals working on various company projects that I could someday be the head of in a supervisory position, making great money, and living my dream as an IT Professional.

Samuel R. of Fruitport, MI - 09/12/11

About Me - I am a 22 year old married graduate of Davenport University. I achieved my BA in Applied Science from DU this past May. My focus was on Cisco networking, completing both the CCNA and CCNP portion of the curriculum. I am currently working at Staples as a computer technician. I am currently studying to take the CCNA certification exam, and will so on September 28th. I am currently living in Muskegon, MI, however my wife and I will be relocating to MD shortly. While I am not in school, my wife and I spend our time traveling, backpacking and canoeing around different parts of the country. I am also an armature photographer and a hobby mechanic, restoring classic cars with my father.

Life Inspiration - The most inspirational person in my life would be my long time friend and college, Dan. Friends since middle school, he introduced me to the world of computers and IT as a profession. Raised in a broken home, as his mom died when he was 13, he showed me the potential of putting your mind to something you believe in. Encouraging me to attend Davenport University for computer networking, he is an ever important person in my life when things seem down, or difficult. Without him, I would have never had the opportunity to pursue this world of IT.

Program Goals - When I was told about this opportunity by my Cisco professor, I knew that I had to apply immediately. Not only was the potential pay an attraction, but the ability to learn side by side with LAN/WAN professionals is the opportunity of a life time. I hope to be able to gain the knowledge and skills in order to peruse a life time career as a network professional. I would also love the ability to equate myself with the culture of the professional IT field.

5 Year Plan - My goal 5 years from now consists much of furthering my education, not only in the networking world, but the business world as well. I plan to achieve a Masters degree in Business administration or Information Science. As part of this, the achievement of higher certifications (CCNP/CCIE) is crucial to my educational development.

Angel M. of Riverview, FL - 09/12/11

About Me - I am 25 years old, just recently graduated with my bachelors from ITT Technical Institute with a degree in Information Systems Security. I've been teaching myself about computers since I was little, growing up watching my father work on computers. While in the Army my father became very interested in the industry and he studied until he retired in 2000 (after 25 years in the Army). He pursued a position in the field and has been working in IT for the last 11 years working for a number of major contractors (Titan, SAIC, General Dynamics, L3). It was this that inspired me to follow in his footsteps into the field of Computer Science and IT. I have spent the last two and a half years working in a number of different environments (Managed Services) and have gotten exposure to a plethora of different infrastructures while servicing hundreds of different clients. I am currently working with Vangent Enterprises(A General Dynamics Company) on their service desk and working towards moving up to higher positions.

Life Inspiration - My father has always been my biggest inspiration. He lost his farther in Viet Nam and grew up on his own as the oldest of 3 boys. He pushed himself hard and exceled within the Army for 25 years and retired. He immediately jumped into the field of IT and now works as a site Administrator for L3 Communications. He has always taken the weight of the world on his shoulders and always prevailed, constantly striving to further educate himself and to stand out as a great asset to every company he has ever worked for. His example inspired me to follow into this field, and in my experiences working in IT I have had the honor to meet and work alongside some of the most knowledgable, inspiring, impressive, unique individuals. The ones that have always stood out to me the most were those that took me under their wing to teach me networking. These are the individuals that I wish to thank for igniting a passion in me to follow down the same path and to further educate myself as they did.

Program Goals - I have always had a higher interest and inclination towards networking. I have taken the opportunities presented to me to learn a lot of different things, from backups, automation, scripting, exchange, servers, VM, etc. However I have always found networking to be the work I found the most satisfaction in. I hope to walk away from this program being able to command a greater knowledge of the field and to resemble all of the great network/infrastructure administrators I have had the honor and pleasure of meeting during my work in the field.

5 Year Plan - I like to think that within 5 years I will possess the knowledge and credentials to command a position in this field. I would like to have the comfort and knowledge that my resume would be appealing to employers and that I would be able to make a comfortable living for myself doing something that I love to do. I want to work somewhere that I can feel that I am a valued asset and that I enjoy being a pivotal part of. I would also like to feel I have the security in my profession to start and support a family.

Novell P. of Richmond , VA - 09/10/11

About Me - My name is Novell Patron and I love working in the IT field. I am currently pursuing a Masters Degree in Software & Engineering Management. I already have a Bachelors Degree in Networking & Security Management. My current position is Deskside Support for Netwroking Technologies and Support, Inc. I really enjoy my job and I love to learning new things especially when it comes to the changing world of IT. I am single with no kids, two sisters and no brothers. I would love to be a part of this program.

Life Inspiration - Most of my inspiration came from my grandparents. I just look at how much they had to go through in hard times and know matter what they made it through whatever it was. They inspired me to go to school and become the first in my family to earn a Bachelors Degree. They told me no matter what never stop and stay focused. Fortunately my grandmother had the pleasure of seeing me graduate before she past away last year. Their inspiration is what keeps me going today, I know they wouldn't want me to just remain content and not further my career.

Program Goals - I hope to learn as much as I can through this program in order to further my career. I have found that when you surround yourself with the right people and in the right environment that I tend to learn a lot faster with a much higher focus. This program has peaked my interest and sounds like a very unique way to incorporate a real world environment through an internship in order to advance my career in the IT field.

5 Year Plan - In 5 years I see myself as a Network Administrator with the ever growing possibility to continue to move forward in advancing my career. I feel as if I could be a great leader and manager\team lead. I have been put in leadership positions all of my life, in the military I was voted dorm chief by my peers while in bootcamp. I was promoted to assistant manager and then production manager very quickly when I worked in construction for MASCO. While I was in college I was voted by my peers once again to manage a project in my capstone class which involved everything we had learned about networking & security management throughout our tenure in college. It consisted of creating a 2 domains, 2 domain servers, 2 back up domain server, 2 Linux servers, and 2 email servers along with a Cisco router in order to link the domains together. Also I had to use scripts to join users to my domains, which of course were other students involved in the project I really enjoyed this and this is why I would love to be a Network Administrator.

Francesca T. of Brooklyn, NE - 09/07/11

About Me - I am a recent graduate of Lehman College, with a Bachelors degree in Computer Information Systems. I am looking to combine the knowledge I obtained in undergraduate study with hands on experience. As a technician at Verizon Wireless I gained some hands on experience with with cellphones, netbooks and other wireless devices. However I am looking to gain experience in more advance technical services, such as LAN/WAN.

Life Inspiration - The most inspirational thing to me is technology. The little things it makes possible, that mean so much. Things such as allowing the father away at war to speak to his daughter through a video call. Allowing family members who live on opposite sides of the world to keep in contact through email and/or social network.Though it wasn't very long ago many of these technologies weren't available, to many it feels almost impossible to live without them. That to me is inspirational, for something that hasn't been around very long to have such a large impact, speaks a lot to the power of technology.

Program Goals - Through this program I hope to further explore the field of Information Systems and enhance the skills I have already acquired in my work/personal experiences as well as my undergraduate study. By completing this program I hope to gain the experience and knowledge needed to become successful in the growing field of Information Systems.

5 Year Plan - 5 years from now I see myself with a career in Network Engineering. I will be a Network Engineer Manager passing the knowledge and expertise I have obtained to my employees. Though I will have extensive knowledge and experience in my field I will still be reading and learning new things, because technology is always changing and evolving. I will continue to advance in the hopes of one day running my own network engineering company.

Christopher S. of Tampa, FL - 09/07/11

About Me - I am an experienced IT professional currently working for the Florida Dept. of Environmental Protection as an IT Analyst. I am responsible for Level I and II technical support for the Tampa regulatory office. This includes maintaining network hardware and software, researching and analyzing problems, and monitoring the network to ensure availability to system users. In 2008, I received a B.S. Degree in Computer Networking Technology from Central Connecticut State University. The program focused on local and wide network design, administration and other Cisco-based technologies. Shortly, I will be relocating to my home-state of Connecticut where I hope to continue my training in Cisco networking and pursue various IT/ networking career certifications.

Life Inspiration - There are many inspirational moments, people, places, things or ideas. The one that comes to mind would have to be public employees. As the economy has been struggling as of late, these selfless workers are asked to do more with less, day in and day out. No matter how much their workload is increased or how much more is asked of them, they always find a way to get the job done. It's not because of the promise of larger financial rewards. It's for the love of their job and knowing that at the end of the day, they are helping build a better community and life for our country's current and future citizens. Their sacrifice and hard work is what makes our country so great. Many public employees even risk their life every day – i.e. law enforcement, firefighters. It's not for glory, fame or money. It's to protect the citizens from everyday dangers. Regardless if it's a Math teacher, EMT, Environmental Scientist or construction worker, everyday, these employees show their unselfishness, loyalty, honesty and integrity. It's these qualities that should make them an inspiration to us all. It's this inspiration that gives me the willingness to learn and excel. I will do whatever it takes to improve my life and career. Not only will it be beneficial to my family but it will help an organization thrive and contribute to future economic growth in the greatest country in the world.

Program Goals - I hope to continue my training of various Cisco software and hardware technologies, and become an asset to an organization that utilizes these same products and services. My experience and education has proven that I am capable of succeeding in a career like this. While working for the states of Connecticut and Florida, I’ve been able to demonstrate my analytical, logical, and technical problem solving skills. I also have over 13 years experience working in customer service environments, which have given me the communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills that are vital for any IT, engineering, analysis or administration position.

5 Year Plan - In five years, I see myself as a senior-level engineer or administrator within a successful organization. I hope to be a key member of a productive and efficient IT team that sets the bar for all other departments in terms of productivity, effectiveness and teamwork.

Calvin T. of Coloado Springs, CO - 09/04/11

About Me - I retired from the US Air Force in March 2009 after over 20 years of service as an High-Frequency Radio Operator in the telecommunications career field. My career took me from Texas and Californa to Philippines, Japan, England and Turkey, where I worked with deployed LANs, tactical/strategic radio operations, satellite communications management, secure voice, data, fax satellite radio terminals, tactical switchboards, operations planning, resource management, safety, and security. I am married and have a son in the USAF Academy and a daughter attending Sacramento State University. I am currently attending University of Phoenix in the Bachelor of Science in Business Accounting program. I am an avid golfer and enjoy watching sports, particularly Denver Broncos. I am a mentor with Big Brothers Big Sisters. I am a member of various Masonic organizations, such as Mountain Post Military Lodge No 26, where I am the Lodge Treasurer and presided (WM) in 2008, current President (Commander-In-Chief) of Pikes Peak Consistory No 81, Kadesia Temple No 135,Randall A Baker No 2 (HRAM), Magnolia Chapter No 14, OES (current WP), and am the elected Grand Treasurer of MWPH Grand Lodge of Colorado. Through these organizations, I am involved in many volunteer opportunities within the community.

Life Inspiration - The most inspirational person besides my family is a young man that I mentored at Big Brothers a few years ago. Recently I met him at a wedding and to see the transformation that he has gone through. A few years ago, he was having trouble in school and home, even though his potential to succeed was outstanding. He was constatly in a fight, many times with older boys, simply because of his environment (his father and uncles were boxers). He stated to me many times that he didnt want to fight and didnt like to fight but he had to or he had to suffer consequences at home if he didnt. We talked about different situations and I offered him advice, especially since he was heading to middle school the next year, and a lot of the older boys were waiting on him. I lost contact with him once he left the program and to see him at the wedding was a joy. He stated that he was no longer fighting and he was getting very good grades, and that he was enjoying his time in high school. He looked very good and seemed happy,and stated that I was hero. He was the hero to overcome so much and turn his life around with odds to fail very high. Given the atmosphere that he had to grow up in, this young man will become a very important asset to his community and to society.

Program Goals - I hope to gain more indepth experience and knowledge to enhance my career in the IT world and build on what knowledge and experience that I gained in the Air Force. Inclusion in the program would be tremendous in helping me to become more knowledgeable and obtain better job security with a company that recognizes and rewards performance and provides opportunity for growth.

5 Year Plan - In 5 years, I see myself as a highly coveted and veteran IT specialist with a company that leads the IT market. I will have graduated from University of Phoenix with a Business in Accounting degree, also celebrating in the graduation of my kids in their respective acomplishments.

Michael C. of East Windsor, CO - 09/03/11

About Me - I'm 23, I've worked on computers for 10 years. Everything started before I entered high school, I would just want to know the basics but that wasn't enough. When I went to high school I went to Howell Cheney Vocational for Information System Technology; with this I had to take a 2 hour bus ride to and from school everyday. I was on the bus during snow days before the school administration was up to cancel it. I furthered my education by going to Branford Hall for college, I actually went to school at night while maintaining a full time job. I was 7th in my class in high school and held close to a 4.0 GPA throughout all my schooling. Like anyone my age I live with, on and around electronics all day. I have a rooted android phone, I have a dual booted home machine with a server/backup machine running right next to it. I live and breath technology and computers, I don't see any other career out there that I want. I've dedicated my life to this and I'm only 23, I'm a dedicated individual and work hard for what I want.

Life Inspiration - To be honest, after thinking about this question for some time your company was the first thought in my mind. Just the way you've extended your hand out really speaks to me. You're looking to improve people and help with obtaining a job of the next caliber. I haven't seen anyone else do anything close to that. While a bit greedy I do find money to be a source of inspiration. I want to make more, I want to have the financial stability that being a network engineer brings. I want to obtain my dreams like everyone else and your company is publishing ads that say out loud just that! I thank you for time and hope to speak you soon.

Program Goals - What I'd like to get out of this program is the next step up. I've done desktop support for a while now but I'd like to narrow my focus to networking. Its always been a passion and I've found working with networking on either a software or hardware level to keep my attention quite easily and even want to explore that option more. I've always enjoyed being hands on and doing anything from wiring computers in, to setup IP address, and configuring routers/switches. I find it hard to stand apart in the sea of techs today; what I want and need is to stand out from everyone else, that's exactly where I think you come in. You've spotted this issue, you've seen how hard the job market is out there and this is the PERFECT solution.

5 Year Plan - In 5 years I would like to have my career settled down with a company. I don't want to jump from job to job. I would like to stay with one company until I retire if possible. I want to become an important part of the IT force and do my best to allow the company to grow and expand. I want to feel as part of the team. In 5 years I hope to find myself a job where I look forward to going to work every day even after years.

Cameron S. of Avon, CT - 09/03/11

About Me - I am a 25+ yr experienced IT consultant responsible for overseeing each phase of hardware/software implementation which included hands on development, installation and testing duties, problem solving, production implementation and post-install monitoring of the multiple projects in major commercial banks. My most recent position was with US Bank which I completed on 6/30/2011 after two and a half years with several contract extensions.

Life Inspiration - The most inspirational person in my life was my Dad who died when I was 15. I didn't realize it at the time, but to this day whenever I undertake at task at work or project at home, I think of some of the things he taught me. Those things were fairly simple in nature like how to connect a shortwave radio or repair an electrical switch. The overall lesson was to do things right and complete every project so that you can be proud of your accomplishments and serve others in a way that would make them want to utilize your services again.

Program Goals - I have always had a strong interest in systems networking, and strongly feel that with my experience in large commercial bank computer systems I can make a solid contribution to the ongoing success of my future employer and its affiliates. By achieving a complete set of Cisco certifications culminating with my CCIE, this program will give me the education and skills necessary to build on my considerable experience and contribute to long-term success and security for my family.

5 Year Plan - I would like to become firmly planted into an organization with the commitment that I will contribute to the ongoing success of each and every project and assignment. This will gradually lead to growth within the company as I become a valuable asset and leader in the networking sector. Within 5 years, I would expect that with the experience and knowledge I've accumulated, I would be a candidate for a management position within that organization.

Kirk B. of Seattle, WA - 09/02/11

About Me - After recieving my Bachelors of Science degree I was quickly hired by the Dept. of Energy to develop composites and polymers. My focus was primarly directed in the materials testing for military and commercial application. My training was further developed in electron microscopy and metallurgical analysis identifying stress corrosion cracks found in nuclear reactor hardware. Throughout my career as a materials engineer I have found success, however, I would like to further my training by enhancing my background in wireless networks and establishing myself in a new career.

Life Inspiration - The most inspirational momemt for me was when I was developing my skills as a metallurgical scientist. Through circumstances in the workplace I found myself in charge of a radiological laboratory after only 3 short months. I was able to successfully master the art of creating samples where there was no room for error, and no second chances to recreate samples if there was a mistake. This not only impressed my colleagues, but it also gave me the confidence in my abilities to quickly learn and adapt to new challenges having great success.

Program Goals - The training opportunites offered with the LAN WAN training program would offer an opportunity to change careers that would allow myself to be marketable for future growth. I would like to develop expertise in an area where the market place opportunities are expanding, while providing a challenging and successful career. Making the transition is the first and hardest step towards developing into this role, and choosing the intern program looks like an excellent opportunity.

5 Year Plan - Through dedication and hard work, I see myself developing into a successful role in IT. I would also continue find new opportunities to apply my skills through mentoring or expanding my own expertise. In 5 short years I see myself being confident and reliable in my role as a WAN / LAN expert.

Jon R. of Omaha, NE - 09/02/11

About Me - My name is Jon Riede and I am a current graduate from the University of Nebraska at Omaha. I received a bachelors degree in Civil Engineering and have been trying to start my career the past couple of months. I currently work for a contracting company, Midwest Mechanical, in which we fit carbon and stainless steel piping for industrial and commercial applications. I am a very quick learner and sharp when it comes to technology. My mind is always racing and analyzing everything I do before I do it. I am organized and very efficient when it comes to getting things done before a deadline.

Life Inspiration - My father is the most inspirational person in my life. He grew up in conditions that were not the most ideal. He came from a middle class family but it was a dead end road. So he went to school and got his engineering degree and is now a respected, licensed engineer at a nationwide engineering firm. He always drove me to my highest potential and never put a cap on what I could do with my life. He is very supportive and a wise man. I hope when I have children I can apply what I learned from him to my own kids.

Program Goals - I hope to get a greater knowledge of the IT industry after my internship and be able to expand my career in this field. I have always been technologically savvy but never got the training to apply my knowledge and advance to a higher, more professional level. So I hope that this program can do that for me and help me succeed to my highest potential.

5 Year Plan - Well, I am getting married next year December and we will also be getting a house. So I see myself in a well paying position after this training, applying the knowledge I learned and climbing the steps to becoming a well respected professional with the probability of advancements and promotions.

Sean S. of Herndon, VA - 08/30/11

About Me - My name is Sean Snead I recently graduated with my BS in Information Systems Security and will be going for my Masters in Computer Information Systems in November of this year. Pretty much I've always like building and creating things. Computers and electronics have always been interested in and I was fortunate enough at the time to have the opportunity to pursue this. I have every intention for this to be my career for the rest of my life. As of now I still consider myself a student but my goal is to be an expert. In everything from networking, electronics, programming and the many webs that these separate yet similar avenues weave.

Life Inspiration - Most inspirational person and moment was the first time I heard Stevie Ray Vaughan plays the song Tin Pan Alley and every song I heard from him after that. Why? I guess because prior to that I didn't really listen to Blues, or I hadn't heard it in a while at least. When I heard that I remembered exactly why I listened to it in the first place. If you meant technical I'd have to say working a GTSI. It wasn't until then when I was taking computers them apart upgrading them packing them up and shipping them on a day to day basis, did I realize how much I liked computers. Just like with the Blues, I completely forgot I wanted to learn about them. A few days later I enrolled into ITT Tech.

Program Goals - What I hope to gain out of this program the theoretical knowledge/ book knowledge to pass the CCNA and later test to reach the goals to be considered an expert. And to me what is the most important (and the most fun) is the hands on training. Although I have studied a bit in Networking Concepts, I don't have much hands on with regards to Cisco systems. When I saw this add, I knew that was exactly what I wanted and needed.

5 Year Plan - I see myself as hopefully being an expert in the flield. Educationally I should have finished off 2 masters degrees; received at least my CISSP and CCNP certifications. Financially hopefully making about $120,000. Professionally working with company/team in a senior role that creates designs manages test and deploys innovative secure solutions. As I said I do like hands on work and I know documentation is necessary a lot of IT hands on work but I'd prefer to manage projects as opposed to being Management in the terms of it administratively.

kristian h. of Phoenix, AZ - 08/29/11

About Me - I am an engineer with personality. Unlike the stereotypical nerd personality that is often assigned to engineers, I am friendly, personable, humors, and fun to be around. Many people told me that they are surprised to learn that I am an engineer. I am a family man and enjoy being a father to my many kids. I have to biological daughters, two adopted sons, and a number of foster children. I have been married to my incredible wife for 26 years and look forward to another 26 plus more. I love a challenge and enjoy being busy. I am good with my hands as well as my brain. I am as comfortable in an office as I am on a construction site. I am an electrical engineering (BS-EET) consultant with over 20 years of experience. My experience is wide ranging, covering many engineering and business disciplines. I do have experience with networks (LAN/WAN), TCP/IP, Ethernet, Token Ring, Novel, Routers, Hubs, etc. My experience has always been connected to then projects I have consulted on.

Life Inspiration - This may seem corny, but watching my children being born and then grow up to become wonderful, talented and useful adults has been the most fulfilling this I have ever participated in. As your question implies “inspirational Moment” moment has been inspirational but have lasted 20 plus years. As to how and why… How, with much love and attention. Why, because in all the giving that is done, the return is much garter.

Program Goals - I am looking to expand my engineering and IT skills. I am also looking for a new career with a future. I have always had an interest in networks, and now with all the advances in the technology I am even more intrigued with the possibilities. I believe that my background in engineering will be a perfect fit for a program like yours. The sky is the limit.

5 Year Plan - Five years from now I see myself in a profession that would allow me to travel the world with my wife working on project with real meaning. We have dreamed of working in developing countries doing work that will have a serious positive impact on people’s lives. As an engineer I have many skills to offer. Network communications may as well be one of them.

Togba D. of Upper Darby, PA - 08/28/11

About Me - I am a native of Liberia, West Africa, and I have been residing America since 1979. I started living in the Bay Area, San Jose from 1979 to 2001, and then moved to Philidelphia,PA.I started my education and professional career in San Jose CA. I started training into Electronics and Digital computers courses at that time because it was essential to have an Electronics background inorder to become a Technician in manufacturing, production or even R&D Labs. I eventually transfered to a Junior college because it was cheaper than the private school that I was attending, and moreover, I wanted to finish my education from an acreditted school. Before graduating from the junior college which I was attending part-time, I was anxious to gain some experience within the Eletronics enviroment. I got my first job as an Assembler on the production line inserting components on to the PCB. I did gradualy move up to Sub-Assembly Line Test Tech anfd Final Test Tech for a computer Integrated Workstation manufacturer. I worked within the Semiconductor manufacturing, production Final Test and R&D enviroment for 17 years. I can troubleshoot a printed circuit board to system and component level. For the past 11 years, I have been working within the IT and POS enviroment doing a lots of short term projects while trying to get more experience and learn new Technologies that I can come close to.I have done some Windows operating systems Roll-outs, system migrations and upgrades, system refresh, Desktop support for cooperate and financial organizations, servers manufacturer and so on. With all these experiences that I have aquired doing these 11 years, I still feel like there is something missing from my career. I somehow feel incomplete without any Professional Certifications.It is like a hump on my back that I am trying get off me, and it is still there. It really bothers me because I have come a long way within the High-Tech Industry, with so many experiences in hardware and software, but I am unable to show a certificate to validate my 27 years of experience.I am devastated. I need to be certified. I do have a home built Cisco and Microsoft windows Network Labs trying to study for the CCNA, and I have spent so much money on equipments and softwares, but I sometimes feel like I need a motivator to push me one more step closer, but I am not sure of what it is that could do it for me. I think that I need a boot camp. Maybe I could feel the motivation from there. I am in Love with this Technology and knowledge, and I am willing to sacrifice the time, but I do not have money, and because of this, I sometimes drift away from the dream. I would like to stop this far and say that, I am very serious about aquiring my CCNA and CCNP if you could help me in getting into your program. I believe I can be successful if given a little hand.I do not have a steady job at this moment, but I believe I can do some part-time jobs to at least pay for my Testing Fees if it come to that. I am willing to repay any amount of money if I can get a Loan. I appreciate your time and effort in reading my concern and getting to know me, and I hope my experience and skill set will meet your expectations. I do look forward to hearing from you soon. Thanks.

Life Inspiration - I can not think of anything in particular right now, but I could honestly say that the dream of imagining what I want to be within the High-Tech enviroment of LAN/WAN Technology, I would say that it very Inspirational to me. I would also like to teach this Technology one day if possible. I can imagine myself in a class room with a lots of routers and switches, giving some demonstrations to students.

Program Goals - I hope to get all the Hands on experience I need inorder to be able to pass the CCNA and CCNP Exams. I already know how to setup 4-5 networks with cisco routers and switches in my home Lab. I can configure routing protocols, VLANS, RIP, EIGRP,OSPF TRUNKS and many more. I want to get out of this course, the necessary informations or preparations that I need inorder to pass these 2 tests the very first time. I need to be around other Technicians or Engineers that are trying to get to the same place that I want to get to. It will be a motivation for me.

5 Year Plan - Within the next 5 years, I see myself working for a very strong Technology company, or even an ISP supporting an Enterprise Network as an Engineer, or maybe Teaching in some school enviroment, trying to pass on the knowledge of Networking in Cisco.I hope I would have my CCNP at that time, and maybe pursuing my CCIE if possible.

Don B. of Westlake, OH - 08/27/11

About Me - I am a highly motivated Army veteran who got his first taste of computers when my father returned to school in the mid 90's to study for the profession of network administrator. When I asked to have my own computer I was given a box of parts and a manual for the motherboard and told to not turn it on until I was sure it was correct. Ever since I have been building and maintaining my own computers, and have expanded my skill set through various employment endeavors. During my first round of college I became employed at a local retailer as a computer technician. Due to factors in my life at the time I was entrigued by the earning potential that this career had to offer and made the move into store sales leadership. After seven years moving through various leadership positions and learning the supporting systems that allowed the stores to function, I began to feel like i had plateaued in this career. In November of 2001 I joined the US Army and pursued a career in Psychological Operations. In this field I was exposed to the many technological components that allow the military to function and was given many opportunities to apply my diverse skill set to help all branches of the service become more effective. Throughout all of my careers I have always been motivated to expand my knowledge and understand the infrastructure that we rely on to the mest of my ability. For the past six years I have been applying my skills helping a green energy startup get off the ground. I have helped in web development, training material production, sales force training and many other areas to help them become successful.

Life Inspiration - I find my inspiration in my children. When I look at them it makes me want to be a better person and provide an example to them that everyone needs to remain flexible and become a lifetime student. By setting the example that you are never in a position where you can stop learning and adapting, I feel that I can become an inspiration to them in their newly beginning lifelong learning quest. When we stop learning new skills and applying them in our daily lives we truly become obsolete.

Program Goals - I am hoping to gain access to a new set of skills that will allow me to remain competitive in an ever expanding and diverse work enivironment. I am eager to have an opportunity to show how my flexibility and current ckills can be applied to almost any field with the same, if not greater, amount of success that I have demonstrated over the last decade.

5 Year Plan - In five years I would like to be aplying a new set of skills in a management position where I can share my experience with the largest amount of people possible to assist them in attaining their own financial and personal goals. By breaking into a industry that I have only seen portions of, I feel i would be primed to excell and offer my knowledge to help any business streamline the reliability and connectivity of their information systems.

Andre T. of Philadelphia, PA - 08/26/11

About Me - My name is Andre Thomas and I am a Civil and Construction Engineering Technology student approaching my last semester at Temple University. I have always excelled in matters involving critical thinking, and problem solving, this is why I went into the Engineering field. Technology and matters closely related is something that I have an extreme growing interest in. I get the greatest motivation when I am able to perform tasks that are constantly challenging and changing, this is why the IT field was always something I wanted to gain knowledge in. I also enjoy innovation and I am a genuine person who takes interest in doing things to help society.

Life Inspiration - My most inspirational moment was when I was a summer helper with a local finishing contractor in the DC Metropolitan area. We were working on an elementary school in the heart of the city. We had the very important job to bring the newly renovated school to life after all the mechanical and structural construction took place. I specifically remember how inspired I was when while we were putting on the finishing touches to the project the seven and eight year old children in the school would just give me these looks of astonishment and satisfaction. It was almost as if I were their super-hero. I realized by just changing the appearance of a building it gives so much hope to the people living in that area. At that point I knew that I was headed in the right direction in my life.

Program Goals - What I hope to get out of this program is experience and most of all a sense of belonging. I am looking to invest my time and diligence into this program knowing that this will be a career long commitment. I also would like to be apart of a company that takes pride in its work and in giving back to the community, as that is a great focus of mine as I move forward professionally.

5 Year Plan - In five years I see myself approaching my Professional Engineering license. I plan to uphold the integrity of engineering to the fullest with Safety and the well-being of society as the number one principle. I also see myself very close to my career oriented goals. Although close to my career goals I still see myself open to growth and expansion in whatever company I am privileged to have been working with up to that point.

Mario O. of La Puente, CA - 08/25/11

About Me - I am a smart, dedicated individual with a very high success rate at academics and capable of grasping concepts based on theory easily. I have some experience with Networks and Security, along with some experience dealing with Servers, nodes, and other networking equipment. I am a hard worker, I believe that there are no shortcuts in life, and through hard work and determination our goals and dreams could be reached. I look forward to advancing my young career and I believe this is the opportunity I have been searching for. I know that I can be successful if given this chance and I believe my background will play a big role in making this happen. I am always ready to explore the new heights of technology and computers, and to give back to the generations what I have learned.

Life Inspiration - Hands down it will always be God through his works by his son Jesus. The teachings, and life style that I believe Jesus portrays and lives is the most encouraging and motivational aspect in my life. I feel that the way I choose to live my life with God through Jesus is the driving force behind my motivation and desire to be successful. Jesus’ perseverance through adversity and his unwavering compassion allowed him to innumerably make sacrifices on behalf for the greater world and for those he loves. I believe this trait in an individual is crucial for success, for it is through this trait that one realizes the importance of sacrifice and hard work for the optimization of their goals. Therefore, I consistently strive to live my life in this fashion; knowing full heartedly that through my sacrifice and diligent hard work, I can succeed in what I do.

Program Goals - Through the extensive training I am expecting to receive, I intend to attain a better grasp on the Information Technology world and its components. I believe that upon completion of the courses I will be able to effectively and efficiently assist those corporations that I am employed under to promote a better and safer user friendly networking environment. I also believe that this opportunity will be the backbone and assistance I need in order to jump start my career into success. I expect the program to be challenging yet informative, and for me to learn a great deal. I know this experience will give me the confidence and skills I need to live the life I know I can.

5 Year Plan - In the relatively near future I see myself working for an exciting company, in the field of Information Technology. I see this possible through the completion of the program being offered, and with the drive to continually improve myself to offer my services for the greater of the organization. I also see myself continuing to strive to be the best and to improve my understanding of the concepts used in this profession. I feel that regardless of how much I know or how much I learn there will always be more for me to learn and understand; therefore I know that I will continue to seek newer ideas and findings in relation to my career.

Larry J. of Monroe, LA - 08/25/11

About Me - My name is Larry Jackson. I just recently completed my Bachelor of Information technology degree with a concentration in security from American Intercontinental University. My final GPA is 3.78 out of 4.00. during my tenure at AIU, I lead several group projects of course related topics, which resulted in not only above satisfactory achievement for the group, but each member also attained a more in depth understanding of the topics that were taught. My hard work and accomplishment at AIU resulted in me being selected as a honor student as well as the deans list.

Life Inspiration - My most inspirational moment was watching my dayghter graduate college and get accepted to medical school. After 12 years in the mortgage industry, she inspired me to go back to school and pursue my dream of becoming an information technology professional. This lead to a challenge between her and I, which has affected my sons who will graduate next year in 2012 with plans to attend college. So my kids are very inspirational to me, who keeps me motivated to continue to push even harder toward any goal that I set for myself.

Program Goals - I decided to apply for this program because, although scholastic achievement is great, I also need to have more of a hands on and real world experiences to compete in todays very competitive job market. I feel this program will give me the necessary tools to accomplished such task.I know that the knowledge gain from this program will allow me to become productive very quickly which will cut down on the training cost of my future employer.

5 Year Plan - I see myself progressing in the Information Technology Industry, specifically in the area of Network security. At this time I would have attained additional skills that would benefit not only myself but my future employer. In five years I myself working as a manager or as a Network Security Administrator. I am aware that many challenges lay ahead of me due to the fact that technology changes rapidly. Therefore the next five years on my way to a position of management, I plan to invest in my continuing education in all aspects of my chosing field toward professional advancement starting right now. In five years I will be well versed in my area of expertise.

Joseph O. of Cordova, TN - 08/23/11

About Me - I was born in Kenya and came to the US to further my studies. I graduated from Rust College in Ms. My choice of study was the technology field which is what I studied at Rust. Right around my Sr. Year I started doing some volunteer work with troubled children and subsequently they hired me on full time as one of their Teacher Counselors. I believe that I am a people person and I enjoyed working with the children, so I did so for a couple years, then I left and decided to work in the industry that I actually went to school for. I worked tech support for about two years, and then the company decided to close their Memphis call center. Almost at the same time, I was approached by one of the recruiters at Youth Villages to come back in management position, stating that they could benefit from my previous experience with them, since they were going through a lot of growth. As reflected in my resume I worked there for next 10yrs. The health care business requirements became more and more focused on one’s actual curriculum vitae, and not the certifications that you get along the way (which I did get). I decided to leave the company and once again pursue my actual line of study in the technology field.

Life Inspiration - Though I have had several inspirational moments the very first happened in high school. My physics teacher Mr. Downey was the teacher on duty that day, he was just sitting there alone and I approached him to talk about the soccer scores (he was from England, Liverpool fan). After we were through with that he asked me out the blue,” what make you think this telephone pole will remain standing?” At that time I did not know what he was talking about then he went on to explain how we as people take things for granted. For example, the telephone pole won’t fall down, the tree that has been there for 40yrs no way will a branch fall on your head; you pass by someone you say how are you doing they say fine, and yet their brother just died. He went on citing several different scenario’s going as far as the cosmos. I was captivated for the entire time he was talking and in the end he said “Joseph I don’t want you to live your life in fear of the unknown, just be aware that you are here because so many things have happened right, for you to be here.” He opened my eyes that day, I was never the same.

Program Goals - I hope to get as much knowledge on networking and communications technology, so I can not only get back in, but go to the next step. I am very aware that the Technological industry changes with every heartbeat; I believe that through I have spent most of career in a completely different line in business; I would like the opportunity to reinvent myself.

5 Year Plan - I believe that I am a quick study and in five years I would think that I would have not only caught up and surpasses my knowledge base from the program, but also it would give me the ability to explore other areas of the industry such as business aspect of it. This I believe will help me with the longer term goal. For example, we all know that the world is global village and what effects one country can positively or negatively effect other countries. It is my ambition to help positively effect this process, maybe not the entire world but at least I believe I can help better connect my two countries. The simple exchange of information cross the sea can be the difference between knowing a medical procedure to save a life, to the market price and quantity of a commodity to make a difference to feed a village.

Angela P. of Apex, NC - 08/23/11

About Me - I consider myself a new IT professional looking to land my first real job. Having said that, I also bring to the table 12+ years technical experience developing and supporting Tier1 Switching Backbone system. My career developing landline Call Processing services was thriving and well until 1998, when I took an extended leave of absence to raise a family. Now, I find myself returning to the work force with stale experience and nearly obsolete domain expertise. I have spent the last three years dedicated to upgrading my domain knowledge to compete in the Internet-version of my old career; but opportunities to refresh my experience have proven difficult, in these economic times. I have perseverance; I have confidence; and I have determination to rebuild.

Life Inspiration - Two people: My son Kirk, whom I watch timidly and quietly trying to find his place amongst crowds of confident, busy people. My son Karl, who never, ever gives up on his ideas or beliefs, and rarely ever gets down, in spite of a sometimes hostile setting. They both have their challenges, internal engineering as well as environmental. Add to that, bouncing between two homes and growing through teenage years, and you see truly inspirational perseverance to survive and remain healthy.

Program Goals - I expect to refresh my Network domain knowledge, understand the big picture network models, acquire tools to identify and isolate problems and bugs, and learn the equipment syntax well enough to "surf the network" safely and at an entirely uncommon access level than is usually meant by that term. That is, I expect to be able to find my way through a network and make modifications confidently and safely to any provisioned hop, so as to offer valuable skills and knowledge to an employer as well as the end-users.

5 Year Plan - Gainfully employed, confident with my domain and hopefully comfortably past all the "survival" learning curve. I am ambitious. I will always seek cutting edge horizons to explore, but hopefully, in five years, I will at least have the safety net of a stable career to support me while I seek out new worlds and new civilizations and boldly go where fewer have gone before...

Hussain A. of Little Rock, AR - 08/23/11

About Me - I will graduate in December 2011 with a bachelors of Science degree in System Engineering-Electrical Engineering. I am an extravert who interacts well with people. I like to set goals for myself and I am a very persistent individual. I want to work in the Information technology field because it is an area where I can use my ability to create solid knowledge and skills, along with long term relationships with clients. I want to work for your company in particular because you concentrate on heavily on Information Technology which is an area that is growing and challenging.

Life Inspiration - The most inspirational person in my life is my father. The older I become the more I realize how much of a great man he is. He put himself through college on his own and gained respectable employment at Armaco where he worked for many years before retiring. He has never taken the easy road in life. I have watched him work hard and provide for not only his family but for his siblings and their families. My father always said that once you start something you must finish it, even if you didn’t want to, you must stand by your word. He has always told me that education is the key to a successful life; I never understood how important this was until now. I respect my father for his honesty, work ethic and the way he has and is taking care of his family

Program Goals - The opportunity to work for this company presents an enlightening proposition for me to learn from some of the best minds in the field. I am hoping to be equipped with the skills and knowledge to move forward in my career. I also welcome the opportunity to network with other professionals in my field. I would like to learn how they deal with some of the real world application I have and will encounter as a new comer to the field. The experiences and education I receive from this program will allow me to gain confidence and necessary knowledge as an engineer.

5 Year Plan - In the next five years I’d like to see myself here advancing to the next level or at least learning new things and taking on new responsibilities if at all possible. I would like to advance. However, I am flexible. I will do my current job to the best of my ability and keep my eyes open for opportunities within the organization to advance even if it means changing roles. I am prepared to learn new things and contribute to the overall success of the organization in a number of ways.

Kyle Y. of San Antonio, TX - 08/21/11

About Me - My name is Kyle Young. I recently obtained my first bachelor's degree December 2011 in Information Systems. Immediately after I decided to go right back to acquire my second bachelor's degree in Infrastructure Assurance. I am enrolled in night classes and am trying to finish this as quick as I can so I can move on to my master's degree. Haven't quite decided which path I am going to go for my master's, but I do know I will be going. For my first few years of school I was working full time, going to school full time, and also had to do side jobs and work part time to pay my way through so I didn't have too much time for extracurricular activities. This continued until I was able to land a well paying job while I finished my studies. I was working for a restaurant in The Grand Hyatt as a cook, it is one of the things I like to do in my spare time. So now I was working full time able to pay bills and focus solely on school. After finishing my degree I started working for a small inbound call center for AT&T U-verse products. There I am able to see the backbone of the AT&T network and finally got to IT in action instead of just theories and controlled labs and simulations. It's very exciting to have something happen and then jump into and have to get it working again in a way that you fix the issue, not just put a band-aid on the problem.

Life Inspiration - I think I was about 9 or 10 years old and they were showing us a video about Bill Gates in his garage with a couple buddies. They had all these different computer parts laying around and this is when they were trying to figure out how to make a computer personal. Well when they got that cursor to come up on the screen that was when I knew computers was the way I wanted to go. Ever sense I have been learning all about computers, mainly the Windows side of things, just recently started learning Linux, but am learning a lot about it and finding that it is so much more powerful than Windows.

Program Goals - This program really excites me. This is an internship that allows you to learn the Cisco products, their infrastructure and the coding behind it all. In the past I have come across some Cisco scripting and coding and it's has it's own language that is used all over the world by some major companies. This particular aspect is gaining the many different certifications, because that is what really matters in the IT world, if you have that certification to go with your degree. With that under my belt I would be able to almost pick and choose where I would like to work.

5 Year Plan - In 5 years I see myself having just finished my master's degree working for a company that encourages continued training. I would hope to be in at the very least in a middle management position, but my ultimate goal to gain a position as either a CIO or IT Director.

Louis L. of Depew, NY - 08/21/11

About Me - My name is Louis, I am 28 years old and currently live in Depew, NY. I am currently employed at M&T Bank as a collections/mortgage loan counselor. As far as career history, I have mainly done phone work, and had a few years in between as a warehouse manager in South Florida. A hobby of mine is home audio electronics, and photography. In my younger years, I would assist my father in doing residential and commercial electrical work and was also enrolled in a Cisco Networking program as my high school.

Life Inspiration - If I had to choose an inspirational person, it would have to be Abraham Lincoln. If there has ever been anybody in history to to persevere through a difficult challenge it would be him. Not only did he have the huge task of the slavery debate, but to do that and put back together a nation is probably the most admirable act done by an incredible leader of our country.

Program Goals - I would like to get a better understanding of how networks really work. Having to rely on them on a small scale at home, and on a much larger scale at my workplace. I want to learn what makes the system "tick" and be able to know my way around problems and ways to improve a business network, I know how frustrating it could be to have a slow running system when you need it to be fast.

5 Year Plan - In the next five years I really would like to see myself in a more career oriented position other than just another voice on a telephone for 8 hours a day. I know that information technology has been an ever growing field with a lot of potential in the coming years. I would also want to feel a sense of pride for a company that I work for and the job that I hold. I enjoy a more detail oriented position to give me challenges to help me grow each day.

Carisa M. of La Habra, CA - 08/21/11

About Me - I am currently employed as an Assistant Store Manager for Starbucks Coffee Company. I have been with Starbucks since 2005. I have also been able to maintain a 3.87 GPA as a full time student at ITT Tech in San Dimas. I am graduating with my BA in Information Security Systems in just two weeks! I am passionate about technology and I have always dreamed about working with Cisco systems. I hope to someday be knowledgeable enough to gain a partnership with Cisco; as well as achieving success through gaining the many certifications I plan on attempting.

Life Inspiration - Well...this is a loaded one...Most inspirational? Well my most recent inspiration has to be from one of my current instructors at ITT Tech. His name is Mr. Long Tran. He is super intelligent when it comes to anything technology based. He loves taking things apart and fixing them, but thats not what inspires me. He inspires me everyday. Despite recently having another child, Mr. Trsn might as well set up a bed in Lab 6 of ITT Tech. He teaches 6 or more classes every week of every quarter. And he comes in on his day off to facilitate workshops for students who are interested and desire certifications. This man could (and has actually in his past professional career) be making an unbelieveable amount of money, but he would rather get paid a teacher's salary and give his day off for free to those of us who have a passion for technology. He is a true inspiration! ANd I am lucky to know him.

Program Goals - As I stated above; it is my dream and my goal to work with Cisco based products as well as gaining the certifications offered. I would love to be able to dive a little deeper into the world of Cisco since my current education in computers only briefly scratched the surface. I also hope to be able to network with new groups of people so that I can become more visible and in return earn a position where computers and technologies are the main focus.

5 Year Plan - In five years I would love to have successfully completed 5 certifications. Including a MCSE. I could see myself well established in a technology based position and on the verge of moving up the ladder. I would also like to take and share my knowledge and experience with others. (possibly at my old school for a workshop or two.) I have not come from the easiest upbringing. I struggled for quite sometime to achieve what I have thus far, and I have much bigger and better things to come, but I want others to know they can be successful too.

Sabrina W. of Springdale, MA - 08/19/11

About Me - I am an ambitious IT professional and recent college graduate from Prince George’s Community College with my A.A.S Degree in Computer Information Systems. Throughout my academic years, I have always been determined to go in the right paths that I knew would eventually lead to open doors. In recognition of proficiency of my academic studies, I was given the title of the Computer Information Systems Star Student award in Prince George’s Community College’s gratitude. While being enrolled at Prince George’s Community College, I was a member of the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math Collegian (STEM) and participated in various significant events. I was also selected as one of the STEM members to participate in a study of Forensic Biology and Computer Forensics that was taken place in New York City at the New York City Office of the Chief Medical Examiner. I plan to continue my studies at the University of Maryland University College for my Bachelors of Science in Computer and Information Sciences. In addition to my college studies, I have interned in the area of IT Compliance, Security, and Fraud Prevention at Sirius XM Satellite Radio. Within the company, my duties include running File Integrity Management software that monitored various user activities of a minimum of 150 users. Along with administering the software, I routinely set up meetings with various vendors to assure that the software was in agreement. I also have a significant amount of clerical/administrative tasks such as filing documents chronologically/alphabetically, supervising over others to assure that the tasks are being handled properly, and also document files that contain confidential and sensitive information. IT Compliance and Security relates to how accurate a company follows a national standard of SOX (Sarbanes-Oxley Act); which is widely known as specific guidelines of confidentiality that a company must follow in business and business law fields. I am continuing to learn about the classifications of important information, which leads to executing compliance. Furthermore, I took part in SOX testing by analyzing different reports and interdepartmental communication. I have assisted my department in researching and locating possible vendors for future contracts. This process involved direct communication with vendors, comparisons, and staff meetings.

Life Inspiration - Throughout my years, my parents significantly motivated me to pursue my goals and aspirations. Both, my mother and father are very successful entrepreneurs and greatly impact the long and short term decisions that I make in life. Seeing how determined they were to successfully accomplish their goals in running a real estate business influenced me to start a commerce of my own. Growing up, my mother always quoted the old cliché “never say never”, which permitted me to never give up on my dreams. Neither of my parents ever allowed any setbacks to hinder their fortitudes to continue on, despite how treacherous the conditions appeared to be. Being able to witness true perseverance hands-on helped me to have even more respect for my parents because they never gave up on their ambition. In the eyes of my parents, I am a gift to the world and my inspiration will allow me create paths for others.

Program Goals - Within this program, I plan to display my technical knowledge in an environment where it will be recognized. My personal motivation will allow me to keep my focus in learning the significance of WAN/LAN technology. Moreover, I am multi-task oriented, enjoy a challenge, creative, and continually stay up to date of the latest expansions in the IT field. I feel that this program will not only assist me professionally, but will allow me to grow into an even more aspiring person. Within the duration of being enrolled in the WAN/LAN Engineer Internship, I plan to lead a path for others by putting my ideas in effect. It would be an honor to express my ideas freely being a selected participant of the LAN/WAN Engineer internship.

5 Year Plan - Success is given to those who strive for their dreams and never give up, despite the tribulation. In the next five years I see myself being a successful and devoted professional in the field of Information Technology. In conclusion of finishing up my academic studies within graduate school, I will be working at a firm with committed individuals like myself who continued to pursue their goals. I will be a leader and positive inspiration to those who are following the same as I once did.

Tony F. of Troutdale, OR - 08/18/11

About Me - I am an extremely focused individual who is motivated to be the "Most Knowledgeable" or "Master Level Technician" for almost, if not all, subjects matters that I participate in. I believe very strongly that the most important tool I can bring to a situation is a well prepared mind that has been equipped with a broad depth of knowledge about a given subject matter. Since almost no two situations are exactly similar, having a broad depth of knowledge is, in my opinion, the very best way to be able to resolve most situations in the most efficient manner. With this in mind, I would further submit that I am an individual who is not afraid to take calculated risks that further advance my knowledge base and / or enable me to "achieve a step closer" to my career goals. Examples of this would include my college level educations in Computer Electronics Engineering, Business Administration, Accounting, and my additional coursework / apprenticeship leading to a Journeyman Electricians License, which were undertaken as a way to prepare me for eventually owning my own Audio/Video/Control systems integration company. Additionally, I believe that we live and work in a world where professional trade (industry) certifications are an absolute necessity and that we are very rapidly approaching a period of time where certified individuals will either remain employed or will be employable while non-certified individuals will not. This coupled with the very apparent realization that the world of A/V systems integration has, and will continue to be absorbed into the IT world, especially in the realm of Video Teleconferencing, Audio Teleconferencing, facility wide Audio/Video Media streaming and distribution, integrated (hardwired and wireless) user control platforms, and internet media streaming solutions, has left me with an established belief that I need to seek out opportunities to increase my personal skills set so that I may continue to be competitive in our changing world.

Life Inspiration - I think that perhaps the most memorable event that has happened in my personal history was a situation where a long term mentor and friend provided me with a “golden nugget” of wisdom which continues to echo in my ears to this day. I had an opportunity to work for a person who was one of my friend’s clients. During the course of my employment with this individual it was revealed that he was conducting his business in a manner which was illegal and this, among other issues led to my subsequent leaving of this position for another opportunity. This inadvertently provided a method of notification of his activities to the authorities. Once the illegal activities became known to the authorities, they in turn levied financial penalties against the individual. These events in turn caused my friend to lose this person as a client, which cost him (my friend) a substantial amount of money. In voicing my concern to my friend about how I regretted the outcome of the situation and my role in it, he made the following statement; “You do the right thing because it is the right thing to do, regardless of the costs involved” I have found that my friend’s advice has carried me through situation after situation and I have come to believe that the need for this type of steadfast example is more necessary in today’s work place than possibly at any other time in history. There are numerous ways to destroy a client’s trust, but doing the wrong thing to make a buck is perhaps one of the most surefire ways to ensure personal, as well as professional failure. It is my earnest hope that I will continue to “do the right thing because it is the right thing to do” in all aspects of my personal life as well as my professional life.

Program Goals - First and foremost, I hope to get the required foundational knowledge to be able to correctly and successfully engineer out LAN/WAN systems that will successfully transmit, process and handle all situations that will be required of them to handle. Certainly this is to include systems where the requirements are more “data” centric in nature, however, given the context of my personal background, I envision that the scope of my focus would be more towards systems that are able to meet the “advanced” requirements of Audio/Video/Control systems integration. This type of focus would include, but is not limited to, a more intense focus on establishing the required qualities of service, proper network segregation through the use of virtual networks, and on-site resolutions of wireless access point issues / conflicts thru means such as on-site RF scanning services. Secondly, and perhaps more importantly, it is my hope that this program will provide me with the additional resources, both through an increasing of my personal skills set and by a potential increase in my ability to be more marketable, to be better equipped for the ever changing career market place. Most companies today, do not have the resources to support a “staff” A/V integration expert, even though the “staff” IT personnel are the people who will be operating the A/V systems, therefore, it is my belief and my hope that this program will enable me to become that “outside” expert, providing a service to the internal IT staff members. It would be my hope that this program would provide me with the ability to “speak” the same language as the IT personal, while being able to communicate the unique requirements of the Audio/Video/Control world to them as well.

5 Year Plan - In five years, I would hope to be a “Master Level” subject matter expert in the field of Audio/Video/Control system integration as it relates to the modern LAN/WAN system. This would include not only the overall system engineering of integrated Audio/Video conferencing systems and other related media streaming / distribution systems which are a part of a client’s networked system, but also an equivalent knowledge base of the component level and physical installation components of the same types of systems.

Moses M. of Durham,, NC - 08/18/11

About Me - My name is Moses Mbutha Mwangi, and I've been working for Directv as a Professional Satellite Installer. I'm very hands-on and started out 3 years ago with no prior experience and have ended up with a lot of success, my previous job was a technical supervisor in charge of a hardware maintenance department for 2 year before relocation to the US. My goal is to move towards a more IT oriented career with a hands-on and technical aspect. I pride my self in finishing stuff that I've started, sticking for the long haul and not giving up and plugging myself wholly into projects until the best results are achieved

Life Inspiration - The moment is when I set foot in the US with nothing but ambition, determination and the power of thoughts to bring things to life. Long before Muhammad Ali became the prolific boxer, he always claimed to be the greatest of all time and thus ended up so. This is why I've always seen myself being the best in anything I do and through hard work, determination and self will work my way to achieve that.

Program Goals - The opportunity to work in this internship allows me to learn from some of the best I am hoping to be equipped with the skills and knowledge not only to forward in this career but also to become a valuable asset to the organization that I end up with. I will also be keen to network with other professionals in my field and learn how they dealt with challenging situations they encountered as a new comer to this field. I want to be empowered.

5 Year Plan - I want to advance to be an expert in this field. I intend to execute my current job to the best of my ability and keep my eyes open for opportunities within the organization to advance even if it means changing roles. I am prepared to learn new things and contribute to the overall success of the organization in any number of ways. Through this process I know this field is interesting enough for me to dig in and be successful for the long term.

Eric R. of Edgewater, FL - 08/17/11

About Me - I have over 20 years experience in warehouse/manufacturing/ production, 10 of that in management. I have always been pretty good with computers, so I decided to make a career of it, in a field that I truly enjoy, not just doing to pay the mortgage. I have achieved my A.S. in Networking Services Technology in December of 2010, along with my CompTIA A+. I'm currently enrolled in thee B.S.I.S.T. (Bachelor's of Science, Information Services Technology)Program. I cannot wait to break into this field.!

Life Inspiration - In 1981, President Ronald Reagan dedicated our new municipal building in Lodi, N.J. With him was a former NFL quarterback named Jack Kemp. Mr. Kemp stated that "a rising tide raises all ships". Well, I've always kept that quote in the back of my head, for it is truly one of the most optimistic thoughts I've ever heard. That has inspire me to have a "glass half full" outlook on life, I find that people's attitudes are contagious.

Program Goals - I wish to sharpen my skills, to attain a higher, more respected level than just a 2-year degree and an internship. CCNA is the "I need to hire this person" piece of paper, and CCNP is the ultimate career goal.

5 Year Plan - I would really like to take my 20+ years of warehouse/manufacturing/ production management experience, and slap my I.T. knowledge on top of it. A company needs to keep on the cutting edge of technology in today's "live time" environment. An effective C.I.O. is just the position to ensure that aspect of success, and I would love to be one of those C.I.O.'s !

Jamie T. of Raleigh, NC - 08/11/11

About Me - I am an optimistic and enthusiastic 25-year-old who is ready to begin a new career in the IT industry. My younger brother and I were raised by my mother in a small town in North Carolina. After graduating from high school I chose to attend Meredith College. While at Meredith, I not only double majored, but I also made friends and had experiences that I will carry with me throughout my life. After finishing College I became a lead teacher in an infant room. Although it has been fun and I have learned a lot, I am ready to close that chapter and become an IT professional.

Life Inspiration - The most inspirational person in my life is my mother. What is so inspiring about her, is her will and determination to never settle and never give up. My mom and dad divorced when I was seven and was forced to raise my brother and me on her own. The sacrifices she made to raise us, has taught me the value of hard work, perseverance, and kindness. She worked her way up to the top position in her career. By never settling, she showed me that hard work and perseverance will take me far in life. She is also a very kind lady who never stopped believing in the goodness of people. She believed that being a kind and helpful person is the best way to live one's life. it is because of my mother, I am the strong, kind, and independent person that I am today.

Program Goals - I am hoping to learn as much as there is to offer about LAN/WAN. Computer Science was originally my major when I applied to college, and I always wished I would have stayed with it instead of switching. I am hoping that I can learn IT skills so that may use them to help others. I want to learn skills that will help me to excel in the IT world, and help me to become a better, more efficient worker.

5 Year Plan - In five years, I hope to see myself in my third year in an IT position for a company. I see myself working with people and making connections to improve the company and how it reaches its clientele. I would like to be established in a position where I am growing as a professional and setting long term goals for myself and the company I am working for.

Brandon J. of Pittsburg, CA - 08/11/11

About Me - I am a 22 year old, who has recently developed a strong interest in the IT field. I desire to become a Network Engineer and have already begun that journey. I have recently completed a training program where I received both my CompTIA A+ and Network+ cert.'s as well as six months of hands on training and experience. My original plan was to gain more IT experience working contract jobs until the spring semester and then return to college to earn my Associates in Computer Networking and after finding employment return again to college for my Bachelors in Information Systems or something along those lines.

Life Inspiration - My most inspirational person would have to be my older brother. After I was accepted into the program that got me started in the IT field, I started to feel homesick and misplaced. The program was on the other side of the country (New Jersey) and at the time I entered the program I was the only one in my class that did not have some sort of history in IT. I knew absolutely nothing as far as technical IT knowledge goes and I didn't think I could complete the program. I talked with my brother about returning home and going back to doing Electrical work, but he told me that he always knew and believed I was capable of gaining anything I wanted to obtain and that if I really wanted to get into IT all I had to do was go do it. He said all I needed was to want it and he knew I would be able to learn everything everyone else knew and more. So after our over the phone pep talk I decided to give it my all and was in love with IT every since.

Program Goals - I hope to expand my skill set and knowledge in Networking. I highly desire to obtain a few Cisco Certifications, however I don't just want a piece of paper without having any "working" knowledge of the networking field and equipment. I hope that by entering this program I can further my career goals by building a solid base for myself to move forward from.

5 Year Plan - With or without this program in 5 years I see myself working in my chosen career position with a few years of experience under my belt and a Bachelors degree. I see myself still eager to learn more, yet fully comfortable in my abilities and knowledge of networking. I see myself enjoying life, both at home and work.

Monique L. of Waukegan, IL - 08/08/11

About Me - I am an assertive, creative, detail-oriented, and organized individual. I have a history of creating positive experiences while also building strong, loyal, relationships with internal and external organizational contributors. As you may notice from my resume, I have had the pleasure of being held accountable for a vast variety of responsibilities offering you and your organization a unique mix of skills, talents, and resources. My most recent position was as a Sales and Service Specialist within W.W Grainger’s Ecommerce’s Department’s Grainger.com Team. My position within the department gave me the opportunity to not only make a great impression on customers but also the opportunity to regularly provide solutions related to helping customers leverage their maintenance, repair, and operational spending. I assisted customers both internal & external with finding solutions to Ecommerce issues such as Order Management and order routing errors to ultimately gain their trust, commitment and establish a win-win partnership. Throughout the duration of my position, I proved my capability of being able to catch on to new processes quickly, as well as understand, analyze and apply complex data and information to find an adequate solution. Since starting with Grainger, I had always met or exceeded expectations with a high energy level and commitment to customer focus. When I was presented with issues that required time and research, I was known to step up to the challenge, taking ownership of the problem to get it resolved in a timely manner. As a result of my dedication and hard work, I received Grainger’s “Best of The Best” customer service award for 2007, 2008, and 2009. I also won the award for having a winning attitude in October 2010. I actively participated in 8 Six Sigma and Lean continuous improvement projects related to processes such as Order Entry, Marketing Communications, and Sales Leads Management. If given the opportunity, I can offer your organization a unique mix of skills, talents, enthusiasm and passion. I am knowledgeable in Oracle’s SAP platform, MS Excel, PowerPoint, Word, Access, Publisher and Adobe. I have a history of being a quick learner, adapter to change, and interpreter of complex data. My strong research and organizational skills have been recognized at all of my previous jobs. I am assertive, enthusiastic, and resilient. I have the ability of performing a vast variety of duties, with excellent written and verbal communication skills, an eye for detail, as well as the ability to execute strategic marketing strategies. Personally, I am a single mom who's currently attending Keller's Graduate School of Management pursuing my MBA with a concentration in marketing. I volunteer coaching little boys' tee-ball and enjoy spending time with my six year old son. Although I'm currently unemployed, I volunteer daily at a local non-profit, filing, teaching life skills' classes and writing grants.

Life Inspiration - One of the most inspirational moments in my life was when I went to a fundraiser event featuring the artist Mary J. Blige. During the event, she spoke about the challenges in her life that she overcame. From abuse to being raised by a single parent. She explained the audience that anything is possible when you believe in yourself, no matter what you have been through in your life. Since that event, I have never used my childhood as a crutch or excuse for my life. I continue to set goals and work aggressively to accomplish them, believing in myself and my abilities.

Program Goals - This program seems like it's a "God-Send" because, I've really been struggling with deciding whether or not I should double major for my MBA with concentrations in marketing and eCommerce. I believe if I am provided with the opportunity to participate in this program, I will be a lot more knowledgeable about network and database management techniques and can use the skills, knowledge and experience gained to help a corporation that I am truly passionate about grow.

5 Year Plan - In five years, I see myself in a senior managerial role, sharing knowledge gained with others, inspiring them and helping them accomplish their professional goals. I see myself working more aggressively to narrow the digital divide gap and growing with an organization that I am truly passionate about.

Cortney F. of Hawthorne, CA - 08/08/11

About Me - My name is Cortney Feazell, I'm 24 years of age. I've Currently enrolled in Network System Administrator, at ITT Tech College. I am a mother of a two year old child. I'm motivated about providing and securing her future. I love the web, reading, and the outdoors. I've decided to further my education in computer science, beacuse that is one of my biggest interest. I don't just want a job I want a career in something I'm passionate about.

Life Inspiration - My daughter is the person who inspires me the most. Becoming a parent has taught me that the choices I choose today will effect her later. How I secure her future is important to me, how she looks at me later on in life matters to me. I want her to see her mother as a role model. She is why I've decided to go back to school. I would like her to have the finer things in life, I need to work hard, and sacrifice now in my life to get these things.

Program Goals - I would like to learn the LAN/ WAN. I hope I would be able to fix, control, monintor, design,and secure all aspects of the computer system. I want to learn how to solve complex problems, also to install software and hardware programs. Most importantly I hope this program teaches me the wide area of program scripting, algorithms, and implements.

5 Year Plan - I see myself well educated and experienced in the career of my choice. I would like to working at a company that I can utilize the education that I plan on recieveing from ITT Tech College, and the hands on experience I would get from this promgram, if choosen. I also see myself being motivated enough to be succesful to advance to a higher position later.

Benjamin D. of Florissant, MO - 08/07/11

About Me - I'm an educated young man who has attained both my Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering and Master's degree in Business Administration. I went into the engineering field because I was fond of math, science, computers, and problem solving and wanted to make a difference in the world through the continued advancement of technology. To me engineering was the way to go to achieve this. I also wanted to understand the business aspect of how a business is ran from top to bottom so that it could help me be the best professional that I could be given the opportunity as well as open other avenues down the line in my career and that's why I chose to get my MBA. I have little experience in my field with my lone experience coming through an internship at Kraft Foods where I was a Project Engineer. I have vigorously continued to apply for career opportunities hoping for someone to give me an opportunity. In the meantime, I have worked various temporary jobs and jobs that aren't in my future to grow with in order to keep busy and make ends meet. If given the opportunity to become a LAN/WAN Professional the strengths that I bring to the table are that I'm a self-starter, I have a willingness to learn, I'm computer literate, I'm a natural born leader, I'm a team player, I have a great work ethic and drive, I'm ambitious, I enjoy solving problems, and I enjoy taking on multiple tasks and having the responsibility to perform above and beyond what is expected of me. If granted this internship as a LAN/WAN Professional not only will I embrace the opportunity but I will strive to be the best LAN/WAN Professional that I can be and I can guarantee that I will be successful in doing so.

Life Inspiration - The most inspirational person to me is my mother. My mother is a single parent who raised me and my other siblings to become who they are today. Everything that is instilled in me is because of my mother and who she is as a person. She never gave up hope or her grit just to make sure that we had the life that she wanted us to have. She made sure that we were educated and knowledgeable enough to know what it takes to be successful and not go through what she went through. That meant the world to me to know that someone loved me that much to sacrifice everything she sacrificed so that my life could be a success. For that I know that I have to be a success not only for myself but for my mother. To me nothing is more inspirational than that besides my Lord and Savior, and that inspiration is why I know that I can do anything I set my heart to and be the best at doing it. All I need now is an opportunity!

Program Goals - I hope to utilize my skills and strengths to get the most out of my training to prepare me to be the best LAN/WAN Professional that I can be once the program is over. Then I would like to start my career in the LAN/WAN field with a prominent organization where I can utilize the knowledge I attained from the program while also providing me the opportunity to make a strong contribution to organizational goals through the continued development of my professional skills. I believe this program allows me to achieve this goal.

5 Year Plan - In five years I see myself having gained the necessary experience in my field earning the rightful title of Professional or Specialist. I believe that I will have earned the opportunity to advance throughout the organization taking on more challenges while still maintaining to be an asset for the organization. In five years, I no longer see myself as entry level but as a true professional reaping the benefits of the opportunity given to me five years earlier as a LAN/WAN Professional Intern. I see myself being able to help up and coming LAN/WAN Professionals to become successful as well as continuing to climb my ladder of success to become the best professional that I can be opening doors to achieve even greater things further down the line.

Stephen S. of Fallon, NV - 08/05/11

About Me - I am a highly motivated person who has experience in the field of IT with regards to Help Desk, Network trouble shooting, customer service as well as hardware and software problem solving. I received my Bachelor's degree with the University of Phoenix in Information Technology and am three months from completing my Master's degree in Information Systems. I have always had an aptitude for computers and networking and am a fast learner. I am looking forward to participating in this program if selected.

Life Inspiration - I believe I would have to say that my Mom has been a huge inspiration. When I started my Bachelor's program, she was, without a doubt, totally encouraging every step of the way. She also revealed to me something I didn't know I had. I have a gift, of sorts, for writing and it has been reflected in my grades in past undergraduate as well as current graduate classes. She has a Master's in English and knows the importance of receiving a degree, not only a Bachelor's, but a Master's as well. She has always been in my corner when it comes to my education.

Program Goals - A further knowledge far beyond than what I already know. I have already completed the CCNA one time before but never renewed (financial constraints) nor did I further the certification. I have an MCSE with Windows 2000 and NT 4.0 as well as an MCSA. I hope to get the knowledge out of this course to ultimately obtain the perfect job for me.

5 Year Plan - I would like to be in a position where I can pass information I've acquired over the years to others. I truly believe that knowledge is power as well as freely given. There has been so much information that has been given to me as well as worked towards. That combined with what I would learn here would definitely be of a great advantage.

Joseph W. of Covington, GA - 08/05/11

About Me - I am an experienced and well desired individual in Information Technology since my junior year of high school. My first introduction to information technology came when my family was plagued with computer issues and didn't want to invest in computers. My family depended on my to solve their problems so I began to fix computers and my classmates computers. After I graduated from high school I proceeded to continue fixing computers and understanding network topology. After my professors recognized that I was ahead of the curve in my class, they sent in recommendations to the computer services department for student positions. As a student network assistant I started understand the depth and complexity of large networks and how to manage and monitor the network. This experience inspired me to develop and make my primary practice in computer networks. During that time my dedication and motivation led me to work in education, but after budget cuts I lost my position this year. I feel that now is the time to put my knowledge to use in the Information Technology industry and expand my knowledge on Unix, Windows Server and Active Directory to Cisco certifications.

Life Inspiration - My life inspiration is my Grandmother, because she has always encouraged me and proud of the good things that I do. She would love to see me become successful and be able to have the family that I didn't have. I want to make her proud, but the town that I just recently moved from didn't have that many opportunities in the Information Technology profession. I now reside in Covington, GA which is just outside Atlanta and I'm looking for more opportunities and become a network professional.

Program Goals - This program will help me meet the demands of the corporate environment. Understand the complex network environment and manage the environment effectively. This will make me more competitive in today's work force and prepare me for tomorrow and in the future.

5 Year Plan - I am currently 23 year old which means that in 5 years I will be 28 years old. I have completed masters degree in information sciences and working on my doctoral degree at Georgia Tech. I have found a position in a corporate environment where my contribution makes an immediate impact on the company. I also have the opportunity to mentor interns and co-op students on how to create corporate networks and understand the topology.

Gregory K. of st.louis, MO - 08/04/11

About Me - Hello My name is Gregory Kramer. I am a lifelong learner. I am a Recent Masters degree In Education Graduate. I have been teaching and working in the Industrial Technology field for about 10 years. A few of my career high lights so far have been teaching in Alaska, Japan, and Italy. I have been a part of many public high profile and productive teams such as the Museo del vetro glass studio as a Glass Furnace Technology/ Batch quality supervisor utilizing digital technology to control the furnace environment located in the City Museum St.Louis Mo. I have participated in the school district of Clayton Technology Committee as a Representative, held the position of National Engineering Industrial Technology On-line testing Coordinator and worked as an avionics and machine operations(digital electronics)associate for Midcoast Aviation. I held the president position for SEGA and was the G.A.S. Representative Seto, Japan for Southern Illinois University Edwardsville.I hold a Digital electronics National Certification and enjoy the use of new and cutting edge technology. I have worked to establish high quality equipment and software standards in my classroom for the past 8 years as an Engineering teacher. I am eager and enthusiastic in all areas of teaching and technology. I exhibit a desire to stay current in my field and related technology. I have a wealth of knowledge and am willing to share and educate consumers and colleagues. I feel I would be an asset to a business or institution where high- level technical skills and knowledge are required. I am detail oriented, organized and have a positive attitude and hard work ethic. I possess the willingness to learn new things and excel in a diverse work environment. I am a lifelong learner.

Life Inspiration - I am inspired each day by the world around me. Especially my parents, students, fiance and Dean Kamen (born April 5, 1951). My parents have taught me to believe that anything is possible with a positive work ethic and the will to succeed. My students becoming injured and a few of them passing away while so young has enlightened me to the fact of life being an undetermined length and that each moment should be utilized to its fullest potential. If you possess the desire to do something, don't waste time talking about it, do it and enjoy the experiences you have. My fiance inspires me to achieve the impossible and enjoy everything I do. She has created and fostered the attitude that you can do anything that you set your mind to. What one person can do another can do. I learn from her each day. The idea category would have to be placed with inventor Dean Kamen. He never seems to stop coming up with ideas and amazing inventions. Along with the ever popular segway,(if you have ridden one the how and why is self-explanatory) inventing the first drug infusion pump, portable dialysis machines, an insulin pump and an all-terrain electric wheelchair known as the iBOT,and the Slingshot a water purification device that can reduce any contaminated water or liquid into drinkable water instantly. Mr.Kamen's contributions to society are profound and numerous. He inspires myself and others to be all that you can be and live each day to the fullest, giving to others to make the world a better place.

Program Goals - I believe the program can offer me New and current technical knowledge. I will obtain the certification and skills to succeed in today's ever changing technology based world. I desire the training and networking to move to the next level of my career, I desire to be a part of the LAN/WAN Professional program and achieve my professional goals.

5 Year Plan - Working in a technology related field using my training I received in the LAN/WAN Professional program. I desire to be healthy and happy in my career choice. I would like to contribute to society in a positive manner and explore the new technologies and cultivate interest in information technology as an expanding field in today's society.

Demetrius T. of Riverdale, GA - 08/03/11

About Me - I am a graduate of Keller School of Business Management. I have a M.B.A. and focused on Information Systems. I have a strong passion for networking and A+ work. I landed a small time job at a local computer store to further my training. The training I received there was excellent. After working at this establishment for awhile my desire to become "The I.T. Guy", grew more and more each day. Due to downsizing in the company I was unable to keep the position. I am married with a wife and beautiful daughter and I want to be able to provide for them and help the community at the same time. I just want that "foot in the door", change to make not only my life but my families lives as well. I am 27 years old and looking to enhance my skills in the I.T. world.

Life Inspiration - Randolph Frederick "Randy" Pausch,would have to be one of my favorites. He was a youtube sensation in 2007 who was suffering from pancreatic cancer. He was a professor at Carnegie Mellon University(CMU) and taught human-computer interaction and design and computer science. "The Last Lecture: Really Achieving Your Childhood Dreams" which he delivered in 2007 explained his childhood dreams and how he wanted to achieve them and how he eventually achieve some of them. MY childhood dream was to do something with computers, it did not matter what it was but I knew all those years ago that I wanted to dab into this world. By growing up and having no access to a pc but at school I yearn for the technology and how it worked and made our lives a little bit easier. Even though I am getting turned down left and right for not having enough experience, my dreams of becoming a true I.T. Professional stills stand firm in my plans and in my goals. So "Randy" would be one of my most inspirational person. Even though he was given 3 months to live, he lived his life and accomplished many of his dreams. For me, becoming an I.T. Professional is a dream I am continuing to make come true each day at a time. Thank for taking time to consider me for your program.

Program Goals - The main thing I know I will get out of this program is the skills and the knowledge to handle any problems relating to LAN/Wan setups. I do already know how to set up home and small business networks but I am looking to expand that knowledge to take on more commercial and lager business projects. With the skills I will learn I can in turn transfer those skills into results for some company in the near future and to let you Mr. Pule know that you and your staff's work was not in vain.

5 Year Plan - I see myself working somewhere in someones I.T. department or owning my own PC repair and Networking business. I plan to keep pushing forward to I accomplish my goals I have set out for myself in this day and age. I see myself working with a wide range of personnel with different backgrounds,religion and social beliefs. Applying everything I was taught from college and through this training pushed to the limit. I see myself kicking pressure and deadlines in the shins and defeating any problems that is presented before me. I just need a chance to prove it not to myself, but to potential employers. With the addend of this training I will be able to affirm these actions and skills in a more compelling way that can guarantee not only I know what I'm doing, but will assure the employer that they are in good hands and need not to worry, for I will take care of the problem for them.

Christian L. of Auburn, CA - 08/03/11

About Me - I am 46 yrs old, live in Northern California, and use a computer everyday for just about everything I do. I am by trade a Maintenance professional and I am familiar with large scale sensitive computer equipment. I have mostly worked in the hospitality industry in major hotels as the facility engineering director so my exposure to computer equipment and ability to think out of the box gives me an edge not many other Technicians have. In my off time I am usually playing golf or watching a race at my local home track. My hobbies include racing, golf, baseball, hockey, computers smartphone technology and family.

Life Inspiration - My most inspirational moment was 3 years ago. I had returned home from work and sat down and had a few drinks. After sitting there in my chair for about a half hour I suddenly became extremely hot and dizzy. I was taken to the hospital by my wife and fond that I was having a high blood pressure episode. After being admitted to the ICU, I resolved myself right then and there that I would quit drinking beer and other alcohol and get my body back into the shape I am suppose to be in. It has been 3 years since and I have changed so much about my life since that day, I am glad and thank God daily for keeping me around a while so i can make these changes.

Program Goals - I am hoping to gain the training needed to work in this exciting field of computer technology. I have always held a strong interest in working with computers and other equipment associated with that. Before becoming a building Engineer, I had a dream of becoming a trained computer equipment installer/engineer that worked in the aerospace industry. I feel that going through this training will give me the opportunity to advance my working career and bring up to speed with today's technology.

5 Year Plan - I see myself working at a company and making a difference in what needs to get done every day. I see myself enjoying my life outside of my job with my family and being secure in knowing that I got the training I needed to succeed and reach my goals.

FayBriana W. of chicago, IL - 08/03/11

About Me - I was born and raised on the south side of Chicago, IL. I want a career in the Networking field working with technology. I am 17 years old I am the first in my immediate family to graduate from college. I come from a single mother home with three other siblings, two are older and one younger. I have a desire to go after my dreams and my main goal in life is to know that I made a positive difference in at least one person's life before I die. I am a very versatile person and I enjoy working with technology and other people. I have various activities of creativity including writing an performance arts.

Life Inspiration - The most inspirational people are my two nieces and my nephew ages 9, 6, and 7 respectively. I feel that they are my inspiration because they look up to me and they tell me they want to grow and be like me and they have the ability to brighten my day with just a smile. I want to show them that they can grow up and make a difference and they don't have to settle for anything. I want to instill in them to go against the odds and be determined to do whatever they desire.

Program Goals - I hope to improve my knowledge and skills in the Networking field. I hope that this program will instill me with the necessary tools to be successful in a stable and blooming career field that I have a passion for and enjoy doing.

5 Year Plan - In five years, I see myself finishing school with a degree in computer engineering. I will have a degree in Networking System Administration and Networking Communications Management. I want to be establishing myself in a career in the technology field not just a job, but a place where I can make a difference.

George H. of Houston, TE - 08/03/11

About Me - I am a Junior in college at Prairie View A&M University. My major is Electrical Engineering. I decided to go with Engineering because that was what I focused on in High School and thought I'd continue to learn more from it. Not only am I a student, but also and Actor. I perform at numerous theaters locally. I'm also a member of an interactive team for our city's football and baseball teams. I enjoy entrepreneurship. I was part of a local pop group that performed in parades with other celebrities and at fundraisers/charities. My hobbies include dancing, singing, drawing, creating music on my computer, playing guitar, and photography. I plan on not having 1 business of my own, but multiple businesses in the future.

Life Inspiration - A person that inspires me is my mom just because she is a completely hard-working individual who never stops trying to become better. My mother raised all of her children by herself and even helped raise her own brothers and sisters. To this day, she is the "go-to" sibling of the family. She has taught me that persistence really is the key!

Program Goals - I hope to be well trained with knowledge in Information Technology that will help me succeed in life and possibly speed me up to a high-paying position in engineering. I also hope to receive valuable wisdom, skills, and friendships from IT veterans along the way.

5 Year Plan - In 5 years I believe I will have accomplished numerous goals. I will have a nice career in Engineering that I enjoy. My photography business will be locally popular. I would be working on opening a new restaurant with my mom. More film/cinematography experience through acting will be under my belt. Furthermore, I hope to have completed my first music album.

Jacqueline M. of Houston, TX - 08/03/11

About Me - I am recent Civil Engineer graduate and am currently pursuing my Master's degree in General Civil Engineering. I have found many jobs in the teaching or business industry and have yet to find a engineering or technical job. I am excellent with computers and have an advantage of knowing many programs.I am a hard worker, punctual, detail oriented, a quick learner, highly motivated, and looking to learn more new things. I just need a company to give me a chance to prove to them I will be excellent in this industry and I hope LANWNA professional will give me that chance.

Life Inspiration - My most inspirational moment was when I worked as a tutor for children. I could not find an engineering job so I decided to do some consulting and tutoring. My boss would always complement on how I am a great employee because I learn quickly and try my best to perfect everything I do. This was inspirational because I try my best at any job and hearing that from my supervisor and boss meant the world to me.

Program Goals - I hope to learn more about the IT industry. That the training program will enhance my knowledge of all aspects of managing and processing information and related technologies. Today's world consists of the IT industry so I believe that this program will help me in designing, developing, supporting and managing computer hardware, computer software, and information networks, including the Internet.

5 Year Plan - I believe that in five years I will have a stable job where I can successfully apply my degree and background skills. I want to be able to attend the LANWAN internship and hopefully work with them after the internship.

Stephen D. of Monroe, OH - 08/01/11

About Me - I am an accomplished Project Management and Engineering Professional with a history of advancing operations to higher levels of efficiency, profitability and productivity. I have slashed costs, exceeded aggressive production goals, and achieved consistent success in improving the processes critical to achieving needed results, and in eliminating waste. I am a superior communicator, a strategic and visionary thinker that thrives on advancing organizations to effectively meet today’s and tomorrow’s challenges. Here are some examples of my experience. • Versatile professional with diverse experience; Project Manager, Supplier Collaboration Engineer, Mechanical Engineer, and Process Improvement Engineer. • Escalate business development through innovative initiatives that increase productivity and revenue growth; adhere to all standards and regulations. • Organized and detail-oriented; expertise in manufacturing, customer management, and technical infrastructure of original industrial equipment design, research, development and procurement. • Exhibit knowledge in high-speed packaging, high-speed automations and assembly, and supply chain command; chemical, pharmaceutical, fem-care, beverage, and food industries. • Self-motivated leader with experience in personnel management, purchasing, finance, insurance and consulting; provide training and staff development. • Communicate technical and complex information easily and concisely; provide support through new operational systems implementations and difficult process changes. • Demonstrate diagnostic and collaborative problem-solving skills; exhibit proficiency in translating individual needs into responsive, concrete solutions.

Life Inspiration - From a business standpoint, the most inspirational moment came in my career path when I began to focus on the service side of the manufacturing industry. I had devoted many years of my career towards R&D and design. However, as I began focusing on the service side of the industry, my complete design perspective changed. The end users needs and daily activities became more clear which altered my design thinking process. Many designs or processes may function, however, focusing and designing to take every aspect of the end users overall business needs into consideration is the ultimate goal.

Program Goals - My past experiences have exposed me to multiple aspects of the IT world, however, I have mainly focused on the manufacturing/project management side of the business. As the worlds focus has changed drastically in the past 10 years, I plan on altering my focus so that I my gain a foothold in the IT world.

5 Year Plan - My goal is to be certified in as many IT venues as possible. With such certifications, I plan on capitalizing on this knowledge and experience plus my past business experiences so that I may become fully engulfed in the international consulting arena.

Alan H. of Duarte, CA - 07/31/11

About Me - My name is Alan Hilton, I'm 32 years old. I got my start in IT by finishing a Computer and Networking Technology course of classes at Mt San Antonio College. The program consisted of Basic PC Hardware and Software Troubleshooting, Windows Server training, Networking Fundamentals, a basic Cisco IOS class, a C++ programing elective, an Comptia A+ Preparation Course, and a Network+ preparation course. From there, i got a job at an ROP School district as a computer technician. I was employed a few months but was then laid-off due to budget cutbacks. I continued to seek employment for a few months, but then realized that the job market at the time was extremely competitive and I needed better credentials with my lack of experience to get an interview. I then enrolled at Mt Sierra College to attain a Bachelors degree. While in school I got a job in an after school program as an instructor to teach high school kids how to troubleshoot computers. There we focused on a project based approach to appeal to a curiosity learning rather than a lecture learning structure. We would assign them a goal and give them the information resources necessary to achieve their goal. My Fiance then became pregnant with our first child and I needed to find a job that paid better and had benefits. Thru the school I found a job with C.W. Driver, a commercial general contractor, as a computer technician. I then took a break from school to focus on my career and new parenting responsibilities. At C.W. Driver I worked my way up to Computer Technician II. I was with C.W. Driver 4 years before getting laid-off because of the tightening of the budget. Since then I have been looking for work but have been unsuccessful.

Life Inspiration - I am a student of philosophy so there's alot inspirational people or ideas to choose from. However recently Ive read Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand. This book is very inspirational and, to me, helped explain to me the reason the economy is in the state that its in. When businesses start to rely on Government to give them a leg up and they help to influence laws that diminish their competition, the market can then no longer continue to operate efficiently and there will be a hoarding of capital which will in turn create an environment for the stagnation of market growth. Investment is necessary for any economy to flourish and when laws favor a select big few over the many, the limitation of fair competition is the result. Diversity in the markets, in my opinion, work better than the above model because it spreads around what limited capital there is and helps the smaller businesses thrive, which in turn lends itself to job creation.

Program Goals - I hope to gain a great deal of knowledge concerning Cisco products and their inner workings. Even though I had taken a Cisco class before, I have pretty much forgotten what Ive learned. They say that if you don't use it, you lose it. However, I am at the point in my career where I have the skill and the experience to become a network administrator. I hope that this program gives me the tools I need to continue on, and succeed, in that career path.

5 Year Plan - I have always gravitated towards the technical side of computing. I have given a great deal of thought to whether or not I wanted to pursue the managerial side of computing. I have decided against it. I have always felt more inclined to work on the problems and use my finely honed troubleshooting and design skills to further the efficiency of a network rather than using my people skills in a managerial type role. So in 5 years I see myself on my way to becoming a Senior Network Engineer for a company that has 200+ employees.

Oson H. of Augusta, GA - 07/31/11

About Me - I am forty one and started my career in electronics and technology when I joined the ARMY as a Radio Mechanic, after I was discharged I went to school. The majority of my career after the ARMY has been working at or with Motorola equipment. I am currently working at SRS contracted to the Department of Energy.

Life Inspiration - There are two moments I would consider my most inspirational, and those two would be classified as one being personal and the other historical. The first moment has to do with the birth of my first son. His birth itself was incredible but it was a few minutes later that made me cry. He had just been wrapped in warm blankets and handed to me, I was told to take him to a room where they would give him his first examination. I placed him under heat lamps and removed his blankets, within seconds he had his first pee. When he did my eyes swelled and I started to cry. I knew he was ok I knew I was ok and everything was going to be ok. 2. Moment two is the Christmas Truce of 1914 during World War Two. I first heard of these events when I was High School and was fascinated when I heard about it and as I have gotten older read a little more about it. Men who have been killing each other simultaneously exchanged gifts, sang carols, played games and let the other side collect their dead. Although it was only for a few days it was genuine and to me showed even when countries are at war its people can find peace or at least can find common ground.

Program Goals - The short answer would be to expand my technical experience and broaden my knowledge. If I were to stay in the radio side of the house it would give me a foundation, as with everything networking is not just the future but the present. I could also decide to switch fields altogether and work strictly as a network professional.

5 Year Plan - This question is the hardest to answer, I really am unsure. I have thought about changing career fields for some time, but was unsure which way to go. This gives me the opportunity to stay in the radio side of the house or branch out in many directions. When I first graduated school I had mapped out things pretty well and had done a good job of either meet my goals or hitting close to them. As the years went on with layoffs and downsizing I know to be flexible in how I think and how I go about my career.

Jeremy W. of Jacksonville , FL - 07/29/11

About Me - I am a tech savvy person, with a very strict work ethic, that loves all things computer related. I started my education with Colorado Technical University in 2005 for Software engineering. However, due to limited funds I was unable to finish the degree. The degree itself included OOP, Java programming, web-application design and implimentation, DB management, as well as network architecture, IT security, and other related areas. I was recently married and would love to have access to an opportunity that could allow me to finally start my career in IT, and provide a greater future for myself, and my family. No matter what the outcome of this application process, I will work my way into the IT field. This program however, will serve as a strong base for me to stand on in my career.

Life Inspiration - My most inspirational moment would definitely have to be when I was about ten or eleven years old. My father was an Electronics Technician in the US navy. I used to go to work with him on days I didn't have to go to school. This particular time I was with him in his office, which housed about three others as well, and he was showing me how to use the computer. At that time, computer software was limited to command line and very basic menu driven GUIs, never-the-less, I sat and soaked up every bit of information I could. After a while of sitting and not doing much, one of the other people sitting in the office was at the terminal trying to perform a specific task. He asked my father if he could show him how to do something on the computer, but my father was very busy so he jokingly told the guy to ask me. Well, I got up, went to the terminal, asked him what he needed to do, and I then surprised myself and everyone in the room when I showed him how to do it. This realization didn't really hit me until a few years later when we got our first IBM pc. 386hz processor, and I don't even remember the amount of ram, but I would sit and mess with the command prompt, or look into the files of one of two games I had. This was where I realized that I wanted to do everything I could to get into computers. I tell that to people all of the time, and for some reason, no one ever believes it, but that's where my story starts.

Program Goals - This is a great opportunity for anyone that is able to make it into the program. Allowing me access to all of the necessary tools and education I would need to be an IT professional. With the cost of education rising every year, it is increasingly difficult to access the amount of money necessary to pay for the education. I hope to put my hard work ethic to good use in working with this program.

5 Year Plan - In five years I see myself as an IT professional, with or without this program. I'm a very driven, inteligent, and competent person, and I feel that with my work history, I have been undervalued by my previous employers. I hope that within that time, I can work in a career, for a company that respects all of it's employees. Aside from the customers, the ones who are doing the work are driving the company forward.

Christian D. of Hamden, CT - 07/29/11

About Me - My name is Christian Davidson. I am a highly educated, 6-year military war veteran with a broad background of professional experience. Within the past ten years I have held the positions of Electronic Warfare Systems Technician, Air Force Honor Guard, Military Security Forces, Senior Operations Controller, Equations Editor, and Avionics Engineer; all of which I excelled in. To add some detail: within these jobs I have performed the tasks of complex systems troubleshooting, data entry, data formatting, software testing, software loading, and data management. On the side, I perform duties as a handy man; doing home remodelling, tiling, carpentry, plumbing, electrical, painting, and auto repair. I also assist friends and family members in resolving computer issues, integrating new technologies such as digital cameras and iPhones, installing printers/projectors, and other basic computer troubleshooting. I am also a skilled drummer, and play nearly every sport on land and water well enough to be competitive.

Life Inspiration - I was inspired by the movie, "TRON" (the classic one...not the new one). I haven't seen the new one yet; but the way that movie gave an interactive view on the inner functions of a computer and how a program works; as simple and generic as it was, was amazing. It's mind-blowing to think that every function a computer does, no matter how simple or complex the task, is controlled by basic positive and negative bits. And to see it played out in the form of a video game made it all that much more enjoyable.

Program Goals - I am interested in this program because I would like to branch away from Avionics and venture more into a business-like career field. I believe that IT is an ever-needed, vastly-growing career field that is used and needed everywhere; and that this program will allow me to broaden my work experience, knowledge, and skill set; and provide me with the tools I need to be successful.

5 Year Plan - If accepted into this program, I see myself working as a professional IT technician for a reputable organization, where I have the skills and job security to effectively provide for my family.

MohammedElHassan B. of Burnsville, MN - 07/28/11

About Me - I am currently an IT consultant within Wyde Corporation. I’m involved in projects for clients as application developer and business analyst and this is for almost 2 years. Wyde Corporation is an international consulting and software development company that produces world class business solutions and technology tools for a variety of industries. I am a recently graduate student from Michigan State University. After having succeeded in France at the “classes préparatoires”(2 highly intensive years of preparatory classes required for top French Engineering Schools), and getting my Diplôme d'Ingénieur (French Engineering degree) from “Telecom & Management SudParis” where I studied Telecommunications Engineering and Information Technology for three years, I was interested in gaining an American perspective on these rapidly evolving sectors. For that aim, I came to MSU to do a Masters of Arts in Telecommunication, Information Studies and Media. I also double majored in Business Information Systems. My favorite area of interest in IT is networking and data communications.

Life Inspiration - The most inspirational moment for me is the one where I shook hand with the dean and the president of Michigan State University and I was handed my degree. The whole stadium was applauding me and all my professors, friends and especially parents said they were proud of me. I felt proud too and I finally understood that making efforts to learn and improve your skills is totally worth it. If I had the occasion to go back in time, I wouldn’t hesitate to double my efforts.

Program Goals - Being a holder of a Masters from Michigan State University combined with the Masters from “Telecom & Management SudParis” I feel that I already possess some of the skills and experience which could contribute to a successful career as an IT professional. I would however relish the opportunity to discover such an internationally well-known company as Lan Wan Professional, as well as perfect my technical and personal skills. I believe that’s a wonderful opportunity for me to link up with the telecom and networking technologies as I was focusing on ERPs, Information systems and development. It is also a great occasion to get world class IT certifications such as the CCNP and CCIE.

5 Year Plan - My ambition in 5 years is to become a world class IT expert with many valuable experience and projects on my resume. I’m also planning to do an MBA in Entrepreneurship and Operations to add the business and management skills to my technical ones.

Jerel R. of Richmond, VI - 07/28/11

About Me - I just recently graduated from Averett University in Danville, Virginia. I am very interested in computers and technology. A few things that I like to do consist but are not limited to: java script, programming, security, networks, and also web authorization. While at school I played football and was the captain on the football team. I am a great people person and can take lead when needed. I am a very fast learner and I love to take on new challenges.

Life Inspiration - I would have to say the most inspirational moment of my life was when I graduated college. The reason I say this is because I was the first male in my family to graduate from college. That was a big accomplishment for not only me but my family. Graduating college in 4 years without having to do any extra semesters or anything really inspired me and showed me that I can continue to exceed and go on to bigger and better things.

Program Goals - Out of this program I would like to further my knowledge in the information technology field. I feel like this program will not only teach me things that I do not already know but it's something that I love so I will get so much more out of it then just trying to find a job.

5 Year Plan - In 5 years I see myself being very experienced in the information technology field. I can see myself working for a big company that deals with technology. Hopefully I will be making my way up to an executive position with a company.

Andrew S. of Tulsa, OK - 07/28/11

About Me - Well, I am a motivated individual looking for the one job that allows me to succeed with what I know and hope to learn. I currently attend TCC full-time in pursuit of a BA in Computer Information Systems/Technology and are currently a member of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. I will be attending NSU after next fall to finish my degree plan. I am originally from El Paso, TX and moved in here in 2008. I love the people and the experiencs here. In my free time I enjoy hitting the golf course or just enjoying a movie or tv show. I look forward to having a chance to prove myself.

Life Inspiration - That would have to be when I graduated from Marine Corps Boot Camp. Ever since I was in the sixth grade I wanted to join the USMC and when I finally made it through the 13 weeks of boot camp training and I was finally called a Marine by my Drill Instructors, it really made me proud to know that I accomplished what I wanted to, becoming a United States Marine.

Program Goals - I hope to acheive the knowledge to carry myself to excel in what I love to do and that pretty much includes everything in the IT department. I would like the opportunity to excel at what I know I can excel at as well as learn everything I can or may not know about IT. I have many jobs over the years and I am hoping this program would help me find a job that can let me succeed and hold on to for as long as I can.

5 Year Plan - Graduated from college working a good job making excellent, doing something I love to do. I plan on being married and possibly having a few kids. I plan on living in Tulsa the rest of my life but would love to travel with my family whenever possible. And possibly, holding some position of leadership possibly management wherever I end up job wise.

Kenneth H. of Philadelphia, PA - 07/28/11

About Me - My name is Kenneth Harris,I graduated in 2004 from Livingstone College in Salisbury, NC with Bachelor of Science in Computer Information System and a month ago from Strayer University with Master in Business Administration. My dream is to be a Network Engineer. I love working with my hands running cables etc. I have been praying for a opportunity like this to get into a internship program where I can develop the skills and learn more about networking. My resume reflects extensive experience working as a computer technician.I have more than 2 years of Soft Testing experience, PC Support, Configuration,PC Deployment, LAN Support, PC Hardware troubleshooting, Helpdesk support, Application Support, and PC repairs. In my last position, I was responsible for testing and test design for Soarian Clinical Scheduling application, I provided support in standard planning of detailed product development objectives, Identified risk to product quality and reported risk to Release Test Manager, supervised and trained interns on basic software testing. I am also a good communicator with help desk, customer service and troubleshooting experience. I am a great player, reliable and have a positive attitude towards learning new methods.

Life Inspiration - At my last place of work Siemens Medical Solutions,I had the opportunity of visiting the Data Center. This building is where all the routers,servers and switches are located. It is very highy secure fire proof building. I was trill to see how the network administrator had control of all computers, he could log into any user account, monitor what the user was doing and site visited. He could lock any user out of his account. I was excited when I saw more than 2 thousand network cables pluged in routers, servers and switches. I than said to myself again this I want to be part of a network that will setup a data center like this. Why am I wasting my time sitting behind the desk testing software. I than decided to go back to school to get my MBA and after that study for Networking Certification.

Program Goals - I hope at the end of this program I would have learned alot about LAN/WAN. I would have gained pratical experience in setting up and the administration of LAN/WAN. I will be able to sit the CCNA exam and pass so that I can improve the standard of living for my family and myself by increasing my income.

5 Year Plan - In 5 years, my goal is to be a CCNA. I want to be the Senior Network Engineer for any company that would be willing to pay me well. 5 years from now I want to be able to share my knowledge and experience with other by joining the staff of LANWAN Professional to serve as a mentor.

James H. of Cincinnati, OH - 07/28/11

About Me - I recently graduated with a Bachelors Degree in Network Design and Management in August of 2010. I am extremely passionate about technology and feel that I can never learn enough. I would like to expand my skills one day to include VMware, Cisco, and Citrix. I currently work in the IT field but feel that I'm not learning anything new due to budget restraints. The company is not currently investing in technology in order to stay afloat during this time in which the economy needs to be restructured.

Life Inspiration - I'll start with a brief overview of how and why I was inducted into the wide world of Information Technology. I started my venture into IT when I was about 8 years old. I received a Commodore 64 for Christmas that year. I spent the next few months teaching myself DOS and BASIC with books from the library. I was amazed at all of the things that could be done with a home computer. I decided back then that my calling was to enter this world and I was ready to get started. A few years later, as PC's became more and more popular, my parent purchased a computer for the house. It was equipped with Windows 3.1 and I was at first not really fond of the new GUI format for PC and would still perform functions in DOS. After a while of being stubborn, I decided to really dig in and find out everything that I could about the OS and stretch its capabilities. After a couple of days, I found myself craving more. Years later, I started working for a packaging company as a Logistics Manager. I happened to show a website that I had been working on to the IT Manager and he was very impressed. He passed the responsibility of website design and maintenance on to me. After creating a robust website for the company, I was asked if I would like to work in the IT department as a break-fix technician for laptops and peripherals. I grabbed the opportunity. I was unable to go to college at a young age and had to wait. I started three years ago and doubled up on classes to finish in two years. Upon completion, I was promoted to Network Lead and given two technicians to manage. I really love my job but feel that I am not learning anything new and the world is passing me by. I really would love to receive this opportunity as again, I feel that I can really learn newer technologies and flourish in my career. I'd have to say that my most inspirational moment was when I was asked to join the IT department. This spoke volumes about my skills and that someone saw something in me to give me an opportunity.

Program Goals - Learn, Learn, Learn. My favorite avenue when dealing with technology. I feel that I must continually improve my skills because technology is currently improving and changing at a really fast pace. The program sounds great in that I will be able to learn some new skills such as virtualization, which is a huge passion of mine. Unfortunately, I have not had the opportunity to discover this new world and would welcome the opportunity. The program appears to be robust from what I have read and a great opportunity for someone in my situation. I would really like to hear more about the program as well. Also, salary is important for future purposes. This field yields some very competitive salaries and the placement program can help to assure me that I'll be working toward my goal of a long term commitment to employment. Stable employment is another item that I plan to receive under this program should I be selected and it sounds like there are plenty of opportunities to impress prospective employers.

5 Year Plan - In my five year plan, I intend to become an IT Manager by using my Management and IT credentials and experience. I work very hard to achieve my goals and work even harder to make my company and the entire team successful. I feel that I cannot be successful unless I am doing my part to nurture that success.

MohamadAli K. of Wichita, KS - 07/27/11

About Me - In five words I am detail oriented, hard working, fast learner, motivated and a dedicated individual. I love to work in teams. My greatest strength is conflict resolution and have used it numerous times to keep a team together in tough situations. I have a demonstrated ability to adapt to new environments, cultures, people and challenges. My dream is to lead, inspire and mentor others.

Life Inspiration - Most inspirational person: Barack Obama. The positivity and the can-do attitude that radiates out of Mr. Obama is rarely found in the 21st century. After reading the books written by Mr. Obama, I find myself relate to him in the goals that I have in my life. That kind of leadership, a positive attitude and patience can definitely bring a team, a company or a world together. Most inspirational place: The LeaderShape camp. I learned a lot about myself and others as in how we are all differ with our unique positive and negative traits, how to work together and lead. I heard from industry professionals as they talked about challenges they face everyday at work and at home. I felt like I have so much to learn while at the same time so much to bring to our world. I am now sincerely working hard toward brining out the best of my abilities and hope to leave a positive mark throughout my life.

Program Goals - As a fresh graduate, I am eager to jump start my IT career and grow & learn professionally. I hope to be challenged and trained rigorously to handle the responsibility of a LAN/WAN Professional. Since this program is in high demand, if selected, I await the opportunity to bring the best of my abilities to the table.

5 Year Plan - In 5 years, I see myself being a leader, higly skilled professionally and generally in life, working for a company and innovating impressive new technologies or improving existing ones. I also see myself bringing people together, resolving conflicts and mentoring young adults on skills that will help them become better people.

Luther A. of Kansas City, MO - 07/27/11

About Me - A little about myself is that I am orginally from St. Louis, Missouri now in the Houston, Texas area seeking to further my career in Network Engineering. I always had a passion for IT since I was in the military and now that I'm out I planned to absorbed as much knowledge in the IT field as possible. Hobbies that I have are martial arts, computers, exercising, and positive recreation. I have a three year old daughter who is my jewel and she is the reason why Im seeking to improve areas in my life to make it convenient for the both of us. I know that by applying myself to become certified through Cisco that I will continue to reach my goals and continue to reach the level of technology that I desire.

Life Inspiration - The most inspirational person that was in my life was my father ( who has noe passed on). In my life my father has always showed me to have patience and to go after what you want in this life. Growing up my parents struggled in taking care of 5 boys, but by the grace of God and what they were taught from their parents help them and helped us as young men to be able to survive and put your trust in God. Overall, in all that you do never give up and always do your best!

Program Goals - Through the program I expect to receive the highest level of training that will prep me for corporate America. I feel in education or any learning environment that it is up to the student to research, investigate, and apply all that have learn and I feel the only way to do that is by experiencing real life situations. So overall, what I expect to get from this program is to be a more efficient and effective tech in the field.

5 Year Plan - In 5 years I see myself operating my own IT consultant firm which contracts on businesses and delivers effective technology methods that help the clients business supercede over the competiton. Having a better life for my daughter and being financially stable.

Jason H. of Cincinnati, OH - 07/27/11

About Me - I am a person who has worked hard to get where I am. Throughout my life I've worked to try to make things better for myself and others. I really enjoy the thrill I get when I've worked so hard on a problem and I finally come up with a solution. There have been many times in my life where I didn't know all the answers, and I've made mistakes. But I've always learned from my mistakes. I'm constantly looking to better myself, be it in my professional life, personal life, spiritual life or what have you. So I think the most important things to know about me is I am a hard worker, I learn from my mistakes, and I want to make myself a better person every day.

Life Inspiration - My most inspirational moment was in fall of 2009. One day in marching band a person with a terminal health condition came and directed our band in a rendition of our school's fight song. The image of that man's smile is etched into my mind. It was inspiring to me because it showed me that even in the face of death, life can still provide so much joy. Due to this, we cannot take life for granted, as it could be gone tomorrow. I was inspired to make the most of my life because I knew there was much joy to be had in this life, and I could get the most joy by using my talents to help others, much like I did when I played my instrument under his direction. That is why I work to better myself every day.

Program Goals - I hope to gain a further understanding of networks. I've had some coursework in networks, but learning from books and experiencing things for real are often two different things. I want to gain a hands-on, practical knowledge and perspective on networks, so I can assist those who are having problems with them. I just want to learn as much as I can and use that knowledge to help others.

5 Year Plan - I see myself advancing my career forward by using the knowledge that I've learned and experiences that I've had. I am sure I will learn a lot about myself, people, networks, and so much in between during the next five years that I can step forward and be more prepared for any future challenges.

Kristina A. of Littleton, MA - 07/26/11

About Me - Hello there. I just saw the link to this internship and I instantly became curious because I have never seen anything like this. I have recently graduated school on June 30th, 2011, and realized that everything I learned in school in the two year degree program is not nearly enough for me to actually get the job position I want. I graduated with an AAS degree in Networking, but I'm applying for jobs as a technical support. I find that a little depressing because I paid a lot of money for this school in order to be a network engineer, not a tech support representative. I am hoping that this internship will help give me a much needed boost to actually start working the field that I paid to get training for.

Life Inspiration - My most inspirational person would have to be my boyfriend. Even though I had so much on my plate with emotionally supporting my family, he was there to help lift me out of depression that I so constantly fell into. When I felt like I wasn't good enough to apply for something, he was the one who argued with me and pushed me to go for it anyway. If it wasn't for him, I would constantly feel down and not apply for myself. He helps me gain the confidence to go for it every day. Knowing that no matter how strong you are, that you always have someone looking out for you, is very inspirational and makes me want to try harder and harder every day.

Program Goals - Simply put, I want to be a network engineer. That's what I went back to school for and graduated for. I want to apply for job that deals with networking and confidently say, "Yes, I can do that with ease" when I apply for it online. If I can get help on the way there, then there is nothing more I can ask for. I want to learn and am more than eager to start doing so.

5 Year Plan - I want to own my own house and work at a job as a network admin. I can envision myself being a leader at where I work, a certified professional that knows what they are doing and have people looking up to them. I feel I am getting closer and closer, and would to accelerate that path.

Kristopher R. of Philadelphia, PA - 07/26/11

About Me - I am a hard-working 23-year-old man. For what I lack in experience, since I am fresh out of school, I make up for 10 times over in determination, ability to organize and a self-motivated driven force like no other. I do not mind working late to meet a deadline and I do not mind starting before dawn to get started on a project. I put 110% of myself into everything I do. I am very trustworthy, have superior attention to detail and accuracy and I am very personable. In my spare time, I enjoy playing golf and softball with my friends. If it's Sunday during football season, we are probably at one of our houses enjoying a beer.

Life Inspiration - There are three people in my life that have made the most impact; my mother, my stepfather and my uncle. All three, at different times when they did not even know one another, came to this country from Italy and started their own businesses. My mother's went on from 1989 until 2006, my stepfather’s from 1975-2010 and my uncle's from 1983 and still exists today. My mother contracted the business out to someone else to run, who runs it well and my stepfather sold his company to a much larger company within the industry and joined that team. Each of them came to this country with little money and a language barrier from not knowing the American language. They did what they could with what they had and became very successful at their trade. It is not just these facts that what made them inspirational though. I worked for each of these businesses at one point in my life. First, I worked for my mother from ages 12-15 every Friday night. These were the busiest nights and I would always get upset that I had to do something that I did not feel up to doing. She always would tell me that life is about doing the things that you need to do so you can get to the things that you want to do. I then picked up 7am-2pm Saturday and Sunday shifts at my uncle's business from the ages of 13-17. Again, at this job I was doing all the things the veteran workers did not want to do. Because they had experience that I did not have, I was left with the things that anyone could walk right in and do. This made me feel terrible. Doing these dull and routine tasks made me feel like the days would never end and that led to me complain a lot. My uncle would tell me “Kris, you have to start here and eventually you will get to do the things that you see all of us doing.” Then comes working for my stepfather from when I was 18 years old until I was 21. These Saturday and Sunday shifts replaced my days with my uncle since my stepfather needed more help. It was at this time in my life that I realized everything that my mom and uncle taught me. However, these words came through my stepfather in his actions. His business involved a lot of physical labor for himself included even though he was the owner. I realized that to get where you want to be it takes a lot of challenging work. I am up to this challenge. Nothing is going to simply be given to me. It must be earned. It is best to keep your head held high and take each task one at a time. When I used to get overwhelmed by tasks accumulating, I am no longer. When I used to not have a drive to be at work, I do no longer. I am one of the most motivated people I know and it is because of them. Their success not only helped their primary cause in making money to support a family, but it helped shape my life. On top of it all, they speak fluent American English now.

Program Goals - What I will get out of this program is a well-fought challenge. I want to become a professional in the technology industry and this is a program that I would love to act as my guide. Cisco is an innovative and an organization that separates itself from its competitors.

5 Year Plan - Most importantly, I see myself engaged or married to my girlfriend. We have been together for 6 years now and she will be considered in every future decision I make. She is a nurse at St. Christopher's Hospital for Children, so, I expect us to be very career/family focused in 5 years. I also see myself as IT professional that has differentiated himself from his peers. Not in a "I'm better than you" and conceited way, but in a way that wordlessly says to others that I am great at what I do because I do this or that. In 5 years, I want to still be challenged and this will happen because I continuously re-evaluate my situation and always am trying to move forward. This is something that will be never ending, like pi.

Carlos S. of El Paso, TX - 07/24/11

About Me - My name is Carlos Solis. I have obtained a Master’s degree in business administration from the University of Phoenix. I have also obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering. In my current position at Target, I have gained customer service experience by assisting customers in the store to located merchandise or help them with returns. This customer service experience can be useful to provide excellent customer service in the IT workplace. At the University of Phoenix, I led a learning team of four with the group assignments at the. This involved getting group to meet to discuss the assignment, setting timelines for assignments, keeping team on time, and combining the team’s individual parts to a coherent paper. With the skills I have obtained through my education and work, I know I can succeed in this program.

Life Inspiration - The most inspirational person to me would have to be my father. From a young age he should me the value of taking pride in your work. While other kids were watching cartoons on their Saturdays, I was helping my father out with his work at his assistant. Watching take pride in his work inspired me to take the same pride in my work at school and my job. I always give my all into anything thing I do and I know I can do the same with this program.

Program Goals - The opportunity to enter in this program presents an enlightening proposition for me to learn from some of the best minds in the field. I am hoping to be equipped with the skills and knowledge to move forward in my career. I also welcome the opportunity to network with other professionals in my field. The skills I obtain in this program would open new doors which I hope lead to new opportunities both in IT and in management.

5 Year Plan - I am definitely interested in making a long-term commitment to my next position. Judging by what I have read about this position, it’s exactly what I’m looking for. In terms of my future career path, I’m confident that if I do my work with excellence, opportunities will inevitable open up for me. It’s always been that way in my career, and I’m confident I’ll have similar opportunities here.

Hoang N. of Westminster, CA - 07/22/11

About Me - I was completing my last year at CSUF and graduation was drawing near. I was unhappy and felt like I wasted 3 years in majoring Business Information System because it didn't felt like the right career for me. Until a friend of mine called me in the morning telling me to take a Cisco class with him. I heard of Cisco and how great the company was but I didn't know exactly what they did. Since I didn't have a morning class, I took a semester learning about wide area networks, routers, switches and I was truly fascinated by it. When the semester was over, I knew what I wanted for a career and it was to be a network administrator or a technician. I completed the Cisco Network Administration program at Coastline Community College and I really enjoyed the program.

Life Inspiration - My most inspirational person will always be my dad. I have so much respect for him because raising 9 children with minimum pay for over 30 years is really hard. It has physically and mentally worn him down and he is still doing the same work every day. I am looking for the quickest way to jump start my career as fast as possible because I want to be able to take care of my parents and let my dad finally retire.

Program Goals - I am hoping to get more hands on experience because I felt like I didn't get enough practice from the program and I love working on physical devices instead of using packet tracer. I wasn't able to find an IT internship before I graduated and it has been very hard looking for an entry level position without any professional experience. Having an internship from Cisco on my resume would really help me find career because companies will know that I worked and trained under one of the best networking companies out there.

5 Year Plan - Well if I do get accepted for this internship, in 5 years I can see myself setting up WAN, designing and implementing reliable networks, troubleshooting routers because someone one forgot to input the command "no shutdown," and many other things that I love to do on a day to day basis.

Dustin D. of Reno, NV - 07/22/11

About Me - My name is Dustin Dupuis, born and raised in Reno, NV. Graduated Reno High School in 2006 and held my first job as a Mechanic through high school. I started my career path towards becoming a mechanic but soon realized that I should pursue a more successful career because of the great advice of my fellow mechanics. Soon after got into University Nevada Reno and started my career path to become a Civil Engineer. Soon after I got a with Venture Engineering designing and planning commercial and residential subdivision and utility plans. Drafting has always been an interest for me since high school. After almost a year at Venture I got laid off. It was a real hard for me and decided to change my major again to Fire Fighting. After almost two years and few courses away from graduating from Truckee Meadows Community College, the job market for Fire Fighting in the Reno area is the worst it has ever been.

Life Inspiration - I actually two that had the same affect on my attitude in life. My cousin graduated from UC Davis with a degree in Civil Engineering. He was 25 and already has great job right out of college. I'm very proud of him and seeing how proud his parents were was inspirational as well. I also want to make my family proud and become successful. The second was my roommate Lewis who has become a successful real estate agent at 23. Lewis and I have always been entrepreneurs and had a little lawn mowing deal for a bit which turned into property preservation and cleaning for foreclosed homes which was fun for a couple summers. But seeing him change into goal oriented, career minded individual was inspirational to me as well.

Program Goals - I hope to finally establish a successful career path. I've tried certain careers as stated above but I guess it wasn't the right timing. Your website explains how the IT field is a booming industry all over the nation and looks promising. I being born in the Technology boom can definitely see the potential and wish to gain as much knowledge as I can in the IT field.

5 Year Plan - To have become a businessman with a wealth of knowledge and working may through a successful company with great career opportunities beyond that. Hopefully your program will helped that vision.

Donald B. of Fort Wayne, IN - 07/22/11

About Me - I was born in Columbia City, Indiana and moved to Fort Wayne. I attended college in early 20's but never finished my degree. I have married for ten years and have one son, realizing I wanted a career in IT I went back to school on line through the University of Phoenix. I finished my degree with a Bachelors in Information Technology with a secondary in Information Systems Security with a GPA of 3.53. An IT degree may get me a job, but lacking experience makes things more difficult to get in the door. I have been a machine operator most of my life, but with my schooling I was able to move to an office position as a logistics coordinator. In one year I have learned so much about logisitics and perform my job well. I am very motivated to learn new things.

Life Inspiration - I walked for graduation a couple of weeks before the end of my last class. I graduated in Indianapolis, and we spent the night afterwards. I purchased an extra stole of gratitude for my son as an inspiration to him to work hard and attain a higher education. While I was upstairs getting ready, he sent me so many text messages about how proud he was of me, and it really hit home with him the reality of it all. I can think of other things but my wife and son are so proud of me, and that is the most inspirational motivation to aspire to a better job and environment. I worked hard not just for me but for them. I have a friend at work and he also inspired me to keep working harder. He came to my graduation party, and nothing but totally positive things to say to my wife about me. He was the only one from work that I invited and he is a true friend to me. I am reading a book called "Don't Sweat the Small Stuff" that my wife bought me, and it is full of daily wisdom that has taught me life is hard, but you can also enjoy it if you realize the important things.

Program Goals - I have networked with others about the CCNA program and hear that it is a very good program to learn. I hope to learn the skills to perform a job in this field with much knowledge and confidence. I would enjoy a job in the LAN/WAN Professional IT area, and be able to further my career and support my family through the hard work and sacrifices I have made to attain my IT degree. I have worked with computers a very long time and know that I still have a lot to learn. I use the Linux operating system most of the time and enjoy the differences between operating systems. I hope that with proper training and experience with this program that I will be able to apply all of my skills to a future employer. I have a lot of faith and confidence that I can do just that. The potential salary is another benefit that really entices me to work diligently everyday so that I can reach my dreams. I believe dreams and goals can come true if one works hard enough.

5 Year Plan - As of this moment my wife and family really want to stay in the local area for another four to five years until my son is out oh high school. We may be interested in relocating to another city like Indianapolis for a job. My parents are older and I would like to remain close to them if possible. My current salary is only about a third of the potential salary for a position of this type. I would like to be earning a much higher salary performing a job that I really enjoy. I have always found that I work well with others and from school have realized I can learn a lot from others in the Information Technology field who have different backgrounds.

mona b. of Woodland Hills, CA - 07/21/11

About Me - I am a very self motivated individual and I love to work hard in order to succeed. Having determination, integrity, and drive has given me the necessary skills in order to accomplish any goal that is placed in from of me. I like to work in a challenging environment and always push myself to the limit. I enjoy learning from my mistakes because I feel that this allows me to become a better individual and grow within my field. I enjoy working in a dynamic high frequency environment and am able to work well under stress as well as with others.

Life Inspiration - I think my most inspirational moment would have to be winning 3rd place in the CICHME competition because of all the hard work and dedication tat was placed into the project. The project consisted of designing a distribution facility from scratch with only data of volume of pallets in and out of the factory. With only square feet of volume, I lead my team in designing a facility that place #rd in the nation. This project proved to me that with only numbers I can be able to create a design and sucessfully reach a goal.

Program Goals - I hope that through this program I will be able to learn more with in the LAN/WAN enterprise in order to excel within this field. I feel that theses skills will be able to help me attain great knowledge in order to work towards my end goal.

5 Year Plan - In five years I see myself working hard within a company and in order to pursue my talents. I would see myself building my skills in order to move up within a company and work towards a management role within the company.

Jeff G. of Bear, DE - 07/21/11

About Me - I'm a very logical and critical thinker. I enjoy using strategy in my life, whether in games, work, or anywhere I can think about, and employ, a strategic plan to accomplish my goals. I began my work life in the US Navy as a Sonar Technician where I maintained a large computerized electronic sonar system for several years. Being a Sonar Tech gave me the opportunity to learn a lot and to travel around the world, where I recently held a position teaching sonar in Taiwan.

Life Inspiration - There are too many people and things that have influenced my life to name just one. I've had friends stand up for me, who have inspired me to do the same for others. I've learned to not worry about anything, that preparation is the key to handling any situation and to remain calm not matter how much chaos is going on around you. I've also developed a personal lifestyle of enjoyment through learning new things and talking to people around the world to be able to see the world through their eyes. There is simply too much for me to be able to sum it all up in less than a few years of conversation.

Program Goals - I started taking evening courses a few years ago to attempt to get a college degree as a Computer Network Engineer. Two of these courses were designed by Cisco for their CCNA. I took both courses, however, I did not take the tests yet. Though I learned a lot through these courses and I passed them both with an A, I am not sure how I would do on the tests. I hope that this program will give me more training and knowledge, and most of all, the confidence to take and pass the CCNA certification tests, as well as other Cisco certifications.

5 Year Plan - Many paths can be taken, but most lead to me in a position as an IT Manager. I already have knowledge and work experience in several areas of IT and I am more than half way through to completion of my Bachelor's Degree. If I'm not an IT Manager, I should be very close to a promotion to this position.

Kevin S. of Ambler, PA - 07/20/11

About Me - The thing about me that makes me a great resource is the vast amount of work experience I have gained in my career. This diversity gives me an understanding of many ways in which to adapt and learn on the fly. I have a logical perspective towards all things that is derived from working in the general field of problem solving for my entire career and before. I am a dedicated individual who thrives in challenges like the child inside me bursting out at the sight of a vertical climb up leading to a beautiful waterfall. I am the first to jump in the water and stay enthusiastically committed to arrive at my destination. It is the essence of that accomplishment and the beautiful reward that awaits you at the top. To sum it up; I am a hardworking self starter that is looking to have an edge on other candidates for the positions I belong in.

Life Inspiration - My most inspirational moment was the climb to the summit of Half Dome in Yosemite National Park. A pack of four friends rebuilding a 1974 Volkswagon Westfalia that had no engine when we bought it was the start of this journey. I learned from books how to build the engine we dropped in ourselves from the parts I gathered in Mexico. We embarked on a trip that was to take us across as much as the United States and Canada for the next two months of our lives. When we all arrived at Yosemite National Park in California we saw the massive Half Dome jutting into the sky at dawn like the most beautiful piece of nature like it could only be a mirage. That morning setting off on the trail we had only a slight idea of the challenge that lay ahead. This monster mountian took a dedication and sacrice of one's self that it was truly facing death at points. After hours of hiking, rock climbing, ropes, and scaling the bald head of the monster we finally defeated it and made it to the summit. This was the most dream like feeling I have experienced with an overwhelming sense of achievement and pure awe of the majestic view from the top. It was an experience that inspired me to live my life ready to go for what I want and never give up no matter how hard the challenge I faced. This moment inspired the way I approach each moment and each day of my life.

Program Goals - I hope to gain an abundance of current knowledge from a new learning experience in the IT field. I hope that a program that trades hard work for experience will give me an edge to push through and be working at job that maximizes my potential in the field that I have passion for.

5 Year Plan - I see my self working in the IT field and having a fulfilling position where my passion and skills have been continuing to expand my ability. I see myself starting a family I have been investing for. I plan to remain true to myself and not settle for less than utilizing every bit of my ability. I see balance in my life.

Toussaint M. of Renton, WA - 07/20/11

About Me - I am an attorney and have been practicing intellectual property law since 1995. Prior to pursuing a legal career, my work experience was in software systems analysis, testing and configuration. I hold an undergraduate degree is in electrical engineering, a Master of Science in electrical engineering and two law degrees, a J.D. and a Master of Intellectual Property. I thrive on new challenges and seek opportunities to lead in a technical field consistent with my experiences in both the law and in technology. My education and experience have provided with a sound foundation to understand networking technology from both theoretical and applied perspectives.

Life Inspiration - The most inspirational moment in my life was the birth of my son 3 years ago. He is a miracle and I was completely overwhelmed by the whole birth process. He has provided me with the drive and focus to tackle new challenges and to pursue opportunities with a new zeal.

Program Goals - I seek to update my technical skills in an area of high demand in industry (i.e., network technology, especially network security) and to become well-positioned to pursue a mid-to-high level professional position as a project manager or program manager with the responsibilities for developing, implementing and managing national and international computer networks. It is my hope that is program will enable me to gain immediate employment to "cross over" from the legal profession to the technical management field so that I may pursue opportunities in computer networking that will draw upon both my legal knowledge (e.g., contracts and patent rights, etc.) and re-acquired and updated technical knowledge.

5 Year Plan - I see myself in a senior project management role focusing on managing teams of technical professionals on one or more complex computer network and/or network security projects. In this capacity, I would either be a member of a consulting team or part of an in-house technical team. My goal in seeking CCIE training is to become recognized as a highly skilled and proficient technical professional with a working knowledge of intellectual property and contractual legal matters.

Jagat S. of Naperville, IL - 07/14/11

About Me - I am a fun loving and goal-oriented person who is assertive, without being overbearing. I am a versatile team member who is responsive, flexible and enthusiastic. I am an optimistic and a thoughtful individual who works well independently or in a team oriented and coaching environment. I love learning new things and apply those new skills, my previous experience and all my accumulated knowledge to meet the goals set by my superiors and the corporation. I tackle challenges with passion and look forward to the sense of triumph achieved when the goal is reached. I am technically inclined towards information technology sector with specific interest in LAN/WAN engineering and Systems administration. I have excelled in my career while meeting the technical as well as management leadership challenges that started in IT environment and unfortunately led me away from my love for a career in IT industry. To stay connected with my IT skills and in keeping with the idiom of those who can’t, teach; I started teaching TCP/IP at an accredited college where I was able use my knowledge in preparing students for a career in network systems administration and getting them ready for CCNA, CCDA and Network+ certifications. In my spare time, I enjoy repairing computers, fortifying and implementing network within network at home. I have also installed additional shared devices and equipment on my home network within network.

Life Inspiration - The most inspirational person in my life is my wife who always keeps reminding me to chase after happiness, not money. She says that if you put your passion and effort into doing something you love; some of the tangible assets you gain will automatically increase and yet other assets will seem to become less important. My wife reminded me that I enjoy working on and with networks and computers. So that is the path I should be pursuing in life. I feel that this particular opportunity is the result of that inspiration without which, I would have missed such a good program opening.

Program Goals - The program will enable me to embark on a serious and challenging career in LAN/WAN Engineering while preparing me to excel in the industry. The internship will help me learn while working and gaining experience as a LAN/WAN Engineer. From my point of view 12 months of learning in an internship environment is a good investment for advancing my career. This program also affords me the opportunity to utilize the knowledge and skills gained and put them to practical use. A career in Information Technology is one I have always been inclined towards. In many ways this program helps realize my goals and hopes through diligence and integrity. I look forward to the networking opportunities and the new faces I will meet.

5 Year Plan - In the next 5 years I see myself as a subject matter expert in the Information Technology industry. I hope to enjoy working as a middle to senior level LAN/WAN administrator, engineer, analyst, consultant or project manager. My goal is to be the “go to” person at my place of employment. I expect to have put in the time and effort to further my career by obtaining the CCIE, Network+ Microsoft and A+ certifications. It is my hope that this kind of experience and training will eventually enable me to direct a team. I look forward to long nights of studying, responding to network issues in the middle of the night and the challenges that lay ahead.

Matthew C. of Aloha, OR - 07/13/11

About Me - I am a student who has had to take time off of school due to financial strain, I pay for schooling out of pocket as I don't have any loans. I live with my parents and work two part time jobs for money totaling in over 35 hours every week in order to pay for school, the medication for my Diabetes and to help out my parents where I can. One is working in a warehouse, the other is a part time management position at a pool. Before that, I was going to school to learn about Computer Information Systems and network administration. I am a hard worker who puts in extra time to get things done. I do spend a fair amount of free time on the computer for entertainment and I also read in my spare time. I also like to spend time building or updating the hardware on computers for fun, and troubleshooting hardware and software problems for friends and family

Life Inspiration - Probably would have to say my water polo couch from High School. Keith. He was a big inspiration to me just because he could see in people what they couldn't see in themselves. He forced them to find their inner strength to help them survive (mostly his trainings) He made sure I had good grades in high school and motivated me to succeed on my own. He devoted a lot of time and energy to all of us to make sure we were a great team, well, more of a family. I know I wouldn't be where I am today without him pushing and prodding me to make something of myself, which is part of the reason why I am applying for this internship

Program Goals - I am hoping to further my skills in computer administration and network engineering, and eventually getting a real full time job with a big company working with other people who enjoy computers as much as I do. I am also wanting to get back into the technology industry and to keep up to date with the latest and greatest that the tech industry has to offer

5 Year Plan - I picture myself working a successful job with a big company, most likely as an IT guy, living on my own with some money put away and being done with school. (mostly anyways, just going back for refresher courses and updating certs doesn't count)

Timothy C. of Albuquerque, NM - 07/12/11

About Me - I am currently training for a career change to IT Networking. I have been a fuels transport driver for Bp Oil since 1998. In October 2009 I was laid off as part of a nationwide workforce reduction. Bp sold their retail station and transport operations in 45 of the 48 continental United States. They provided me with a generous severance including retirement medical insurance and funds to retrain for a new career. I have used those funds and federal workforce investment funds for dislocated workers to progress through my training since November 2009. Since the start of my training at New Horizons Computer Learning center in Dublin Ohio, I have earned CompTIA A+ and Network+ certifications, CCNA and MCTS Server 2008 Infrastructure certifications. I am pursuing the MCITP Server Admin certification which requires two more MCTS certs of Server 2008 AD and Enterprise management. I also intend to become CompTIA Security+ certified this fall/winter. My curriculum was designed by advisers at the school to provide me a broad based entry level of knowledge, however I really enjoyed the Cisco training and lab experience. I would like to concentrate on Cisco (and possibly Juniper, HP) internetworking technologies. The job postings I view also have me preparing to study UNIX/Linux and virtual platform sharing technology texts on my own, as I see those are prevalent server O/S technologies in the IT industry. It is all quite demanding, but I see this as an opportunity to complete some unfinished business of a degree program I didn't complete in 1980 as a student at Ohio State University. Bp kick-started my desire to return to a past passion by providing me with some of the training funds. I have recently moved to Albuquerque NM with my wife, Nell, who works downtown as a paralegal for a law firm. I am seeking employment and continuing my studies part time (through online remote learning portal with New Horizons). Through my recent job search, I found your opportunity which seems to be exactly what I am looking for. In my spare time, I enjoy reading (History, Science), listening to music, outdoor activities, travel, bicycling and PBS "Nature", History and Travel channel television.

Life Inspiration - I was a student in liberal arts at OSU pursuing a BA in Psychology. I took an astronomy class for a science requirement. My professor was such a good teacher and the mathematics and physics were so fascinating, that I changed my major to engineering. I was afraid of the sciences in high school, but this professor completely motivated me to pursue a new direction.

Program Goals - I see the program as way to obtain internship employment and further training to earn CCNP and CCIE certification. I have spent considerable funds in addition to grants from my former employer and the federal WIA program to earn the certifications I have. I was seeking employment to hopefully get some tuition funding assistance from any prospective employer to advance to a CCNP certification (CCNP specialisation relative to their needs) when I saw your service. This seems to be much more effective than I can do on my own, so I am indeed very interested in the program.

5 Year Plan - I would like to be working in a team environment as a network engineer, possibly in enterprise level network design and implementation. As I develop and learn, If my schedule permits, I may apply certification credits to college, to finish a Computer Science degree I almost finished in 1980 (40 credit hours short). At that time I ran out of funds and started a driving job to save money to return to school. I enjoyed it so much, I continued driving professionally for the next 29 years. The opportunity provided by Bp Oil has me excited to resume a passion I had years ago (and has been a hobby since). As you see by my resume, I am in my fifties. It may seem odd to be applying for an internship at my age, but I believe passion drives work. I don't believe in retirement if work is fun and exciting (and there IS always PT consulting!).

Iris J. of Bel Air, MD - 07/12/11

About Me - My name is Iris Jones and I am currently a fellow in the Integrated Technology Transfer Network program studying Entrepreneurial Technology Commercialization at California State University San Bernardino, in collaboration with the U.S. Army research Lab with a 3.5 GPA. In 2010, I received a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Engineering from Johnson C. Smith University in Charlotte, North Carolina with an overall GPA of a 3.4. I am currently a contractor at the Army Research Lab (APG) in Aberdeen, Maryland working as a Business Consultant, which started June 20, 2011. This program will be over August 17, 2011 as well as me completing the fellowship program; earning my certification in Entrepreneurial Technology Commercialization. After the program is over I am looking for potential job opportunities in the Information Technology field as well as integrating my Computer Engineering degree. Over the years, I was able to hold positions with different organizations serving a as a Computer Engineer, Business Analyst, and Business Consultant.

Life Inspiration - The most inspirational moment was about a month ago, when I was able to thank my professors in the Integrated Technology Transfer Network program for helping me become the strong, smart, intelligent individual that I am. I was really inspired by them because they taught me that I can be successful in anything I put my mind too. “Going an inch wide and a mile deep”. To mention that, coming into this fellowship program I doubted myself when it came to presenting projects and finishing up the graduate level course work. Therefore, as a fellow I was an award winner in the Fast Pitch competition at the Spirit of Entrepreneurial Award Ceremony presenting my business idea in front of 500 or more people. That put a smile on my face to see that I can do anything. I overcame all of those doubts and now I am about to finish the program with a 3.5 GPA. I feel that this is an inspiration because I was able to learn both business and science perspectives. I am ready for whatever is next to come.

Program Goals - I hope I will be able to apply all my skills and knowledge gained that will enhance my skills as a Computer Engineer as well as allowing her to contribute in the Information Technology industry. Also, I would like to work with technical projects because I enjoy challenging and progressive work environments, which allow me to provide guidance to businesses with organizational, strategic and operational challenges.

5 Year Plan - In 5 years, I see myself traveling across the world working in my field helping organizations reach their goal in areas of remaining sustainable and helping them grow. Also, in 5 years I would like to be comfortable with my career allowing me to gain experience with hands on projects. Earning my undergraduate degree, I can see myself being able to perform in fast pace, fun environments working in both the Business and Science industries as well as earning my Masters degree in Information Technology or some related field.

RonnieLee D. of Los Gatos, CA - 07/11/11

About Me - I was a teen in the 1980's in love with the computer / technology environment of Santa Clara Valley. I of course was fascinated with high level main frame computing but had no access to them so I began programming on Apple IIE's and TI994/a machines and learning all that I could about the architecture of the systems. I studied electronics and became an R&D Engineer at Memorex at 21 yrs. There I was involved in R&D electronics including the programming of the test systems and the DOS based computer network (Lantastic). When that plant shut down I was hired as the Chief engineer of Television Associates where I was involved in the video broadcast and digital video growth but also managing the computer network. Initially I had to learn and manage a Novell Netware 3.x network, then I later migrated that over to a Windows NT based network with all windows clients. I continued there for over a decade and then was hired as the IT engineer at Yellow Cab of San Jose. That was my first IT only position. I was responsible for 50+ desktop machines, 15+ servers and all interconnecting hardware for LAN and WAN networking. I found that my skills were more than adequate for that time but as soon as I was laid off I realized how my skills had fallen behind. I am now desperately in need of improving those skills but don't have an affordable avenue to do so. I would be willing to do whatever it takes to succeed as long as I can support my family. I need to be able to provide a solid future for them again in this much more challenging economy.

Life Inspiration - This might sound a bit antiquated, but the person of greatest inspiration to me was Astronaut John Glen. I was a product of that generation who still saw America as the greatest nation on earth. The NASA astronauts embodied the ultimate fusion of intelligence, bravery, strength, and superior character. John Glen with his all American goodness and Gung Ho attitude is still the hero that I look to for inspiration of what a true good man should be. Of course I have been inspired by the Jobs and Gates and many other technological leaders of our generation for their individual contributions but my personal inspiration will always come from Senator Glen.

Program Goals - I am very good with machines, people, and technology. I believe with the skill set that I can develop with this program I will have the tools that I need to contribute significantly to the technological community in which I grew up and have always been integral with. I need to get back to a position where my work is meaningful and substantial. My old skill set allowed me to do that in that generation but is inadequate for the new generation of technology. I believe that Cisco is a major driving force in that technology and culture and will continue to be in the future. I would like to be a major part of that future.

5 Year Plan - I intend to be a major contributor to the Santa Clara (Silicon) Valley technological recovery and involved in leading the next wave of growth locally and nation wide. I believe that technology will be the best tool for recovering the positive strength and growth of our nation and for world wide recovery. I want to be part of the movement.

David M. of Boise, ID - 07/11/11

About Me - I am a professional with over 16 years of work experience. Currently my graduation date from the University of Phoenix is set for November 2011 with a degree major of IT, and this will help me finally pursue my passion of working with computer and networking systems as a career. Most recently I supported a small law firm with their server, LAN, and CRM migration. Cisco products are also integrated throughout my home with both wired and wireless access points. I have a wife and two children that depend on me for career stability, which I am happy to provide in any way possible.

Life Inspiration - My most inspirational moment was when I was a kid working on computers with my dad, doing research on correcting system files, and I learned how to completely rewrite an autoexec.bat file and config.sys file from scratch. Ever since that moment, I knew that computers were my future. (Of course the birth of my children inspired me to make any sacrifice necessary to keep them happy and healthy, but I figured that was too easy.)

Program Goals - I desire the education about installing, maintaining, troubleshooting, and upgrading LAN and WAN systems. The next goal that I have is to gain a long term career position with a company where I can utilize my IT degree and new found skills with LAN and WAN systems. This appears to be a phenomenal opportunity to obtain a position that most professionals only dream of, and I will not miss that opportunity for anything.

5 Year Plan - I see myself in a long term career with a strong company working in a challenging and rewarding IT environment. My goal is to earn a position with a company that I can retire from.

Allen H. of Fillmore, CA - 07/10/11

About Me - Well, I am a person that loves anything that has to deal with computers and with creating LAN's. I've used computers since I was 16yrs old in High School. In 2003 learned that my friends built their own computers and I wanted to see what that was like since I love seeing what's inside of them. After I built one I have just been building them at home. When I worked at Circuit City I got into repairing computers for customers and started to get into Networking and purchased a Wireless Linksys router. Since then I've been messing with the settings and talked with two of my IT friends and what settings to use. Later on I realized that I loved using LAN's in certain types of ways especially with gaming and creating one for possibly creating my own side job with PC repair and freelancing creating home LAN's. I just recently in 02/2011 took both a A+ Cert Prep course and Network+ Cert Prep course and now have a better understanding of Networking. I loved how we worked with VMware to create Virtual Machines and also the fact that we got to do some coding on a actual server using a yost cable from the server to the PC in order to create a network. The instructed had us go through this to give us some insite into if we wanted to go into Cisco classes or go into a field with Microsoft or with Linux/Unix. I decided I wanted to go into Cisco since I loved how we did coding in a type of program interface with the yost cable connected to both the server and the switch connected to it.

Life Inspiration - One of my most inspirational moments was when I was about 9yrs old and when I had the original Nintendo Entertainment System, I used a screw driver to open it up to see what it was made of. During that time purposely removed a capacitor on the motherboard of the NES console which caused my games to not be viewed anymore. I got punished for it but I was very curious as to what was inside it and how it worked. My next moment was when my day purchased a computer for my 16th birthday which was using Windows95 and was using a 56k modem. I eventually got to learn the basic parts of what made my computer to work and since then I have been trying to learn much of computers and how the internet works and how to create LAN's since I love networks and how you can share resources from one computer to another on a LAN.

Program Goals - Well I want to get both a CCNA certification and CCNP and to move into a field involving Cisco in IT. I want to better learn how to do sub-netting in IPv4 and learn how IPv6 is better used in routers and switches and servers, the kind that is used to make up the backbone of the internet. I have a thirst for knowledge but also I want to also have a technically prestigious job with technology that has very very good pay and benefits, especially if I intend to have a family one day I want to make sure that I have a very good secure job in a field that will only keep growing so I can be able to provide for them since now in this economy it takes way too much money to support a basic family.

5 Year Plan - 5 Years from now I either see myself with a Bachelors of Computer Information Science Degree and working in a IT job either in Cisco or another type of IT firm that deals with computer and Networking and working with servers and routers and switches and better understanding in sub-netting and also a better understanding in IPv6, or in 5 years I see myself with certifications in A+, Network+, CCNA, CCNP, Microsoft certs and either working in Cisco IT career field or in Microsoft or with Google.com or with my own IT business.

Robert J. of Murrieta, CA - 07/09/11

About Me - I am a former traffic and civil engineering sub-professional designer with 28 years of experience. While the economy was roaring ahead, I chose to retire-early working freelance part time and volunteer construction. The depth of the downturn of the economy significantly reduced the flexibility to negotiate work. So given the depth of the economic downturn and the shifting job market, I have energy and time available to retool and add to my package of skills to offer future employers.

Life Inspiration - Moment, Senior year Highschool, life long determination formed to isolate the logical/rational means to distinguish reality from unreality. Person, Creator of the universe. Place, Newport R.I. Thing,Bible. Idea, "What is it?". How, relentless testing, verification, modesty, humility. Why, first order priorities begin with knowledge "What is it?" comes first.

Program Goals - All throughout my Engineering experience I have had a strong interest in the digital fields. Early I utilized application customization features then programing features to bring to bare the power computers afforded in engineering tasks. Although I have "picked up" a significant comfort level with applied digital processes, I am certain that a formal educational foundation will fully open professional access to the cutting edge of new ideas and technologies of manageing information.

5 Year Plan - Fully able to harness and contribute valuable insight and understanding of how to put technology to work in a economic and efficient manner. Fully able to negotiate for employment opportunities with skills that can generate a equitable income source into my 60s and 70s.

Vince G. of Allen, TX - 07/09/11

About Me - Hello, first thank you for this opportunity to advance my career while helping others! I'm a seasoned software development professional (6 year Tier 1 engineering veteran, M.S.E.E in DSP and communications systems & B.S in physics) with more than 2 years of hands-on experience in an IT role as a systems administrator on RedHat Enterprise Linux systems for our Raytheon & government corporate simulator customers. I'm also very well versed in many aspects of the defense industry, where I understand the role IT plays on many levels. Having said that, I would like to apply my knowledge, experience, education to take my career to the next level through proper certification. The approaching future does indeed require solid understanding of networking communications along with the ability to see the 'big picture'. I feel I have those capabilities to succeed.

Life Inspiration - The day I grasped the 'big picture' on cloud computing, networking communications, storage and virtualization and the major role that they will play in the future of the internet. It is only through new ways of increased collaboration in our highly networked society will we all take this economy to the next level, and with it our own careers helping others.

Program Goals - My primary goal is to help other team members while advancing my career. Having worked around systems and network administrators for many years, I understand their day to day tasks fairly well in both "open" & "closed" environments, and I realize that my career aspirations can best be served through further developing my skill sets through certification in various aspects of networking communications.

5 Year Plan - I see myself in a system administrator role in an enterprise organization in either a top tier fortune 500 or government organization, where I can help 'navigate' as the saying goes, in either a team lead or management role. Working around people and helping them succeed is another of my goals, much like watching your own child grow and become a mature adult. Watching people grow & succeed is one of the best thrills there is! I imagine I will also be learning and growing, even in 5 years time.

Gabriel S. of Riverside, CA - 07/09/11

About Me - I just recently graduated this June from the Bachelor's Program of Project Management from ITT Tech in San Bernardino. I consider myself to very easygoing, positive minded, and just an energetic person willing and eager to learn new things. Fast learner and quick to adapt to environments that may be out of my comfort zone. I love tackling new challenges and projects in school and hope to utilize my skills ive learned in my career someday.

Life Inspiration - The most inpirational moment for me was definitely graduating from college to get my Bachelor's Degree. No one in my family has ever accomplished this before and for me to be the first one of my family is truly inspirational. I had so much support since graduation it motivates me to strive to be the best that i can possibly be. All those tough years and hard work at school are soon to pay off and i am determined to apply my education in my career if i just get the chance to do so. This was definitely the spark of what inspired me to succeed and just continue to co