Edmund T. of Astoria, NY - 08/25/09

About Me - I have been doing IT support since 1991.First on Macintosh computers and then on PC. I did the MCSE but the lack of server room experience has worked against me. I am now also pursuing a degree in IT Networking. Working in this country has been an unpleasant experience. Finding myself out of work is a new experience. The problem is that this seems to happen every three years or so. I am anxious to change my level in the IT industry.

Life Inspiration - Looking at a project plan in 2000 and deciding that I could reduce cost by twenty percent by cutting down labor and travel by using local labor in the fifty five cities. Then shipping PowerPoint training Cds to all technicians. Client was amazed when we voluntarily cut down the project cost and expanded from just desktops to include servers replacement.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:Classical Music; Books on War History WEBSITES:Cable News MOVIES:Patton, Blazing Saddles GAMES:Soccer HOBBIES:Used to be Chess, have not played for a long time.

Program Goals - This offers me the opportunity to move from Desktop and Helpdesk support to Networking support. It is like a dream come true.

5 Year Plan - A senior Network Analyst with a background in Cisco and an IT degree. However, I have no management aspirations. That is because of previous experience and not lack of ambition.

Thomas W. of Atlanta, GA - 08/13/09

About Me - Educated and interested in lots of things. Practicing Buddhist, formerly Lutheran seminarian, studying American Indian and Toltec medicine. 15 years of vocational rehabilitation work and 20 years in IT. Married, no children, two cats.

Life Inspiration - Reading a book, "Education and Ecstasy". Best description of the moment of discovery when everything stops and there is great clarity of mind...the world seems brighter and in more focus...everything fits together...a sense of personal completeness.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:Beetles, Mozart Clarinet Concerto, Beethoven 3rd Symphony, Dixie Chicks WEBSITES:My Yahoo, weather.com MOVIES:Quest for Fire, Galaxy Quest, The Big Chill GAMES:Freecell, Flight Simulator, Sim City HOBBIES:Walking, gardening, reading

Program Goals - Looking for possible new direction in career. Achieve CCNA as way to broaden current options.

5 Year Plan - Project management of new software systems development. Web/SOA into cloud. Dynamic intelligent user interface based on stated request, usage pattern, and learning style.

Gregory L. of Honolulu, HA - 08/10/09

About Me - I have had various jobs throughout my life. I've work as mental health counselor, a lab technician, a chemist, a computer technician, a system analyst, and lastly a network administrator. So I'm used to changing careers and I am still planning on advancing in my career in IT security. I can work best and most effectively unsupervised. Yet, I enjoy working with people and maintain a good sense of humor. I am resourceful, organized, hardworking, patient, honest & trustworthy. I have much curiosity and a strong desire to learn new things. Thus, I am very trainable. I maintain an adventurous & independent attitude. I am an outgoing, personable, and active person with many other interests. I enjoy taking things apart and fixing them, I also find time for fishing, diving, tai chi, and going to the gym.

Life Inspiration - My parents were the most inspirational people in my life, because they had provided all the necessary things for my upbringing and education, and they were always there for me for everything.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:Science Fiction WEBSITES:Google.com, Youtube.com MOVIES:Action\Adventure GAMES:Poker, Blackjack HOBBIES:Sky Diving and Spearfishing, Surfing and Boogie Boarding.

Program Goals - I plan to get a CCNA certification, so I'd like to get more hands on experience with Cisco routers.

5 Year Plan - In five years, I'd like to be a network security analyst with my own business.

Michael R. of Anaheim, CA - 07/28/09

About Me - IT professional for over 20 years.

Life Inspiration - JFK. "Ask not what the country can do for you, but ask what you can do for the country".

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:Michael Jackson WEBSITES:CNN MOVIES:Gone with the Wind GAMES:spider-man HOBBIES:Tennis

Program Goals - CCNA/CCNP certified.

5 Year Plan - CCIE certified

Mark B. of Oswego, IL - 07/16/09

About Me - Me in a nutshell: Confident, not particularly outgoing but still friendly and easy to get along with, stong-willed yet open minded, generally a quick learner, honest and hard-working. I enjoy long walks along the beach in the moonlight, and right now feel like I am filling out a singles ad... Most people think I have a good sense of humor.

Life Inspiration - The birth of my first daughter Courtney. Unlike my other children, with her birth I wasn't prepared for what I would actually feel - the moment was pure, unadultered, raw emotion. I felt complete and connected.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:Lord of the Rings, The Born Identity, Harry Potter WEBSITES:www.f1.com MOVIES:Lord of the Rings, Braveheart, Miracle, The Crow GAMES:Poker, Dominoes HOBBIES:Auto Racing

Program Goals - I would like to know the rust off my Cisco command line skills, hopfully learn a few things about networking that I can apply, and acquire a current certification.

5 Year Plan - In five years I anticipate that my role as a small business owner will consist mostly of managing the business and clients as well as mentoring junior technicians and consultants. I don't know at what point I will need to stop "getting my hands dirty" as I like to be hands on to see firsthand how things work - but at some point the growth of the business will doubtless require it.

Catherine C. of San Francisco, CA - 07/14/09

About Me - I'm an IT professional who has worked for both large and small companies. I am now working for a small.com where I am responsible for all IT functions.

Life Inspiration - Touching a grey whale in Baja mexico.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:The elegance of the headhog, Waiting, The Kite runner, Remembrances, Swan lake WEBSITES:facebook MOVIES:The Big night, Up GAMES:Bochi Ball HOBBIES:Dogs, knitting

Program Goals - I want to enhance my cisco knowlege in hopes of focusing my carreer more on the networking side.

5 Year Plan - As a Cisco consultant.

Marsha Z. of Clermont, FL - 06/30/09

About Me - I am a 37-year old female who is working on a contract through CDI as a systems administrator. I am working on a project where we are responsible for remediating 3500 servers. The servers are comprised of Windows 2000/2003, Linux and VMWare guests. I have been working in IT since 1997 and love it. I don't consider what I do a job because I have so much fun working on issues and figuring things out.

Life Inspiration - I would say my most inspirational person is my husband. He was diagnosed with a brain tumor in 1999 and has had to go through radiation and chemo. He just recently underwent a 2-year chemo regimen ending August 2008. He never complained about going to work or having to go through chemo. There were days where he looked awful and I begged him to stay home to take care of himself. He didn't want cancer to get the best of him. He assures me that he is going to be around for a long time. I hope he is right. One of the best lessons to take from this is that life is short and you need to take opportunities as they come up.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:I like two genres of music: either rock or rap. I like music I can work out to. WEBSITES:facebook MOVIES:I love comedy movies. GAMES:mahjongg, crossword puzzles HOBBIES:running when I have time and spending time with my family.

Program Goals - I am hoping to branch out from my current role and become more technically versed in Cisco products. I have been working with various operating systems for the majority of my IT career and I am ready for a new adventure.

5 Year Plan - I am hoping that in 5 years I can advance my career enough to where I am either serving as a director or vice-president of a company.

Jatinder S. of Princeton jct, NJ - 06/15/09

About Me - I am a Technology Manager with very broad experience of different industries. I have been in the IT industry for the last 15 years and mainly been involved in Software Development side. I am a ceritified PMP and have been managing projects for financial services company.

Life Inspiration - I am greatly inspired by people who are tenacious and have entrepreneur skills.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:360Leader, Winning WEBSITES:www.acm.org, wsj.com MOVIES:Titanic GAMES:Tennis, Golf HOBBIES:Music, playing Harmonium

Program Goals - I hope to gain some hands on experience working with network devices.

5 Year Plan - I think I am looking for a very broad experience and I hope to be part of senior management of the company at some time in the future.

Emeka E. of East Hartford, CT - 06/06/09

About Me - My name is Emeka Gerald Ezekoka, a Network Engineer with specialty in Cisco routers and switches. I have two years experience supporting an enterprise network and am open to new opportunities.

Life Inspiration - Setting up a LAN aboard Transocean's Deep Water Pathfinder Rig for Total E & P Nigeria Ltd. This was my first project and executing it in the deep Atlantic ocean made it much more memorable.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:Tech books, The intelligent Investor, Inspirational books etc / Christian worship music, R & Bs, Jazz etc WEBSITES:Linkedin MOVIES:Lorenzo's oil, Titanic, Gladiator. GAMES:Soccer, Athletics HOBBIES:Networking, Traveling

Program Goals - I hope to horn my switching and routing skills, improve my LAN/WAN troubleshooting skills and get certified as a CCNP.

5 Year Plan - CCIE in Project Management and Consultancy!

Melissa Y. of Jacksonville, FL - 05/23/09

About Me - I am currently working in the Transportation sector with one of the largest 3PL providers in the world. I just kind of happened into my field, I did not choose it out of interest. I have always been interested in computers and networking, and I finally decided to start working on a degree in networking. I am in a relationship and currently awaiting the birth of my son in the fall.

Life Inspiration - My mother inspires me because she has overcome many adversities in her life and managed to do it with a cheerful countenance.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:R&B WEBSITES:www.runescape.com MOVIES:Lord of the Rings Trilogy GAMES:Online RPG HOBBIES:Motorcycling

Program Goals - I hope to obtain my certifications.

5 Year Plan - Working in the IT field. By then I will have completed my degree program.

. of , - 05/17/09

About Me - Open-ended questions like this are very difficult to answer. I'm an easy-going person, very helpful to others (perhaps too much), and I love to teach people how to solve problems that I have found a way to solve. It's been said that I'm over-educated if such a thing can be possible, but the world is full of so many things that you can never learn them all, and that is fun for me to learn new things. Everything that I learn, changes me as I incorporate the experience into my personality. If you can't tell by now, I'm very introspective and philosophical. Quite a change from my earlier days when I was more focused on the physical and visceral things in life... but we all change as we age, no? I love challenges, and to be rewarded in some way for meeting those challenges-- and this is not necessarily a monetary thing, it could be as simple as a sense of accomplishment.

Life Inspiration - I tend to draw from within rather than rely upon others for inspiration, and that is from my creative and problem solving nature. The idea that usually fills me with awe is the nature of the universe... what it could be, the sheer vastness of it all, and what will happen to the stars as we roll through "cosmological decades" until the "end". The concept of what the universe is, what it contains, and the physics and theological implications is enough to distract me-- and stop me in my tracks if I'm not careful-- which is why I try not to think about these things when driving! There is something about the grandeur, and the scope and scale of it all that puts my life into perspective. It calms and obliterates doubts or worries if I think about how my life compares to all that-- and this allows me to roll through, around, or over any current problem in my life and get back to business!

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:Anne Rice's Interview with a Vampire Series-- very compelling! Margaret Weiss and Tracey Hickman's Drangonlance series is also well-written fiction. I have 32,000 mp3's so most music appeals to me depending on my mood! WEBSITES:I don't have a favorite "website", as I use the web as a tool to get information I need at any given time and not so much for entertainment. I would say Google's main search page is my "favorite" since I always start there. MOVIES:literally anything that has an intelligent plot and good actors, from sci-fi to drama to Disney, I don't discriminate on my movies, and have approximately 15TB of movies in my home network to prove it! GAMES:I rarely play games and would rather watch a good movie or read a good book. Strategy games such as RISK or anything where you have to out-think your opponent are fun for me. HOBBIES:I build home networks and fix PC's for people for fun, and I've recently started an online business grossing $15,000 per month. I also like to edit digital images of family photos and give them to my mother, which usually makes her day. If I were in an urban setting, I would probably get back into amateur bodybuilding again as that was a hobby of 10 years for me.

Program Goals - I am curious about the possibilities of moving into new territory, specifically how it might increase my professional value and allow me to expand my interests and hobbies. I wish to come away from the program with the promised certification(s), job placement, and hopefully some new professional contacts of a like mind. I certainly wish to become proficient and master the course content, so that I am both a worthy student and a worthy job candidate.

5 Year Plan - In 5 years, I would like to be a team lead again, or in a position to become a project manager-- my sense of detail and organization would probably be very helpful in a position like that. With any luck I'll have a position in a sunny location too! Being from the midwest/Chicago, I love that area but wouldn't mind finding another place that I felt was home also. Professionally, it would be a goal to be with the same company in 5 years, and within that company I would like to experience increasing responsibility and new challenges as the years progressed.

Nicole Louis F. of EVERETT, MA - 05/16/09

About Me - I AM 32 YEARS OLD.I HAVE BEEN MARRIED FOR TWO YEARS. I HAVE A FOUR YEAR OLD SON. I HAVE BEEN WORKING FOR COMCEL AS A TELECOMMUNICATION ENGINEER FOR ABOUT 6 YEARS.

Life Inspiration - ONE OF THE INSPIRATIONS THAT I HAVE IS MY FOUR YEAR OLD SON, BECAUSE I WOULD LOVE TO PROVIDE A BETTER LIFE FOR HIM IN THE FUTURE. MY OTHER INSPIRATION ARE MY WORDERFULL HUSBAND AND FAMILY, MY COLLEAGUES AND EVERY ONE THAT I HAVE THE CHANCE TO MEET THROUGH THIS PROCESS.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:N'AIE PAS PEUR LAISSE TOI REGARDER PAR LE CHRIST, LAISSE TOI REGARDER PAR LE CHRIST CAR IL T AIME WEBSITES:WWW.LINKEDIN.COM MOVIES:YOU HAVE A MESSAGE (WITH MEG RYAN) GAMES:PUZZLE HOBBIES:DANCE

Program Goals - I HOPE TO EARN A CCIE IN THE NEXT FEW MONTHS, AND HOPEFULLY TO BECOME SUCCESSFUL THROUGH THAT PROGRAM

5 Year Plan - IN 5 YEARS I HOPE TO HAVE A CARREER WORKING FOR ONE OF THE BEST ENGINEERING COMPANY SUCH AS NOKIA, CISCO AND AT&T.

Pascal D. of Carteret, NJ - 05/13/09

About Me - I am a very friendly, easy going person. Always down to earth and honest to a T. Those who know me will tell anybody how nice and dependable a person I am. When all is said and done, you can count on me to be there for you. I am from St. Thomas the US Virgin Island. I have earned my masters degree in computer science and have been working in the IT field for a while now. In 2002, I took and passed the CCNA. I have really not had the chance to practice what I have learned so far.

Life Inspiration - The moment I held my baby in my arms. My daughter, at the hospital, my wife, the idea of knowing that somebody's life depends on me to some extend. I contributed to making her and so I have to face the fact that I cannot just go anywhere and or do anything I want anymore. I have to share everything including myself. That is a responsibility I take very seriously. Because failing is not an option. I have to make sure that where ever I have achieved in my life is below where she reaches.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:Spiritual Books WEBSITES:Technical Sites MOVIES:Top Gun GAMES:Basket Ball HOBBIES:Political Discussion/Current Events

Program Goals - I hope the program will serve as a spring board to other things in the industry. The positions that have eluded me up till now will be within my grasp. That is what I am looking forward to.

5 Year Plan - In 5 years, I hope to have my CCIE in routing and switching as well as security. Then I hope to be designing networks and implementing those designs for major organizations.

Michael R. of Sacramento, CA - 05/12/09

About Me - I’m 41 years old, married, and we have one daughter that is two years old. I live in Lodi California and work for the State of California in Sacramento. I went to ITT in March of 2001 to earn my Associate degree in Computer Networking Systems and then went on to earn my Bachelors degree in Data Communication Systems Technology by May of 2006. I started working in the IT field in 2005 as a field service technician and then started working for the State of California in September of 2005.

Life Inspiration - Seeing the birth of my daughter was the most inspirational moment for me. I can’t describe how or why. I just see things in a very different light now.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:I love most music but Rock would be at the top. WEBSITES:I don’t really have a favorite Website. MOVIES:Airplane, The Exorcist, The Godfather, Star Wars EV, Blade Runner GAMES:I haven’t had much time to play games lately but I used to play Half-Life and Far Cry on my PC and GT4 on Playstation2. HOBBIES:Playing bass in a band

Program Goals - I am hoping to learn as much knowledge as I can so that I can be a more productive team member at my work. And getting a certification at the end of the program would be a big plus.

5 Year Plan - I see myself carrying more responsibility for Network at the state agency where I work now.

Venkat V. of Glastonbury, CT - 05/08/09

About Me - I am married for the past 12 years and have 2 children. My son is 7 years and daughter is 4 years old. My wife works as a substitute teacher. Basically I was born and brought up in India. Moved to US in April 2002.

Life Inspiration - My inspiring person is my past manager due to his work ethic.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:Melody songs WEBSITES:CNN, ESPN MOVIES:Titanic, Die Hard series. GAMES:Cricket, Baseball, Basketball, Football HOBBIES:Reading Books

Program Goals - I hope I will be certified as a CCNA during the camp.

5 Year Plan - Security specialist.

Thomas V. of Ashaway , RI - 05/08/09

About Me - I'm a hardworking team player who takes pride in doing a goood job and likes working with people. I always take the time to do a job right the first time.

Life Inspiration - The most insprational personal person that I have ever heard is Randy Pausch. His Last lecture Gives good lessons on life how to determine what's important. My favorite items were 1. decide wheather you are a Tigger or an Eeyore. 2.Work well with others. 3. People are more important than things.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:Metal, Hard rock, Rock. WEBSITES:Slash dot, cnet, popular Mechanics/Science MOVIES:Dirty Harry, Patton, Star Wars, Matrix, Mad Max, Blazzing Saddles, Indiana Jones, Tomb Raider GAMES:Risk, Monoploy, Volleyball, Pictionary, Softball, Football HOBBIES:Camping ,hiking, Home improvements, going to the beach, golfing, Coaching kids sports, Mentoring.

Program Goals - I hope to gain the knowledge and skill to pass the CCNP with the CCNA to follow that will allow me to overcome the short comings of not having a bachelors degree.

5 Year Plan - I see myself as a knowlegable and experienced systems and network engineering department manager managing a global team.

Joshua J. of New Albany, IN - 05/07/09

About Me - 30 year old veteran, college grad with bachelors, had 2 cisco courses in college. I love the learning envoriment and working in teams.

Life Inspiration - The day my ship stopped where the International Date Line, and the Equator crossed. The captain dropped anchor, put two safety boats in the water, and let the crew go swimming. Nearest land was thousands of miles away. I thought that the experience was real special, and that not alot of people get to do that. Then I thought, I would love to design my life to have lots of special experiences.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:Linkn Park, Hoobastank, The Art of War-Sun Tzu WEBSITES:LanWanProfessional.com, Wikipedia, Google, Craigslist MOVIES:Matrix, Transformers, Last Mimzy, Contact, Star Trek GAMES:CSS, TF2, UT2K4, COD4, L4D HOBBIES:Computer games, gym, learning

Program Goals - Knowledge. Friends. Experiences.

5 Year Plan - CCIE instructor. CCNA instructor. Getting a masters degree.

Joseph G. of Newark, CA - 05/07/09

About Me - I am an IT professional with over 11 years of experience in Desktop Support, Network and System Administration and Network engineering and management.

Life Inspiration - My most inspirational moment was when I got saved by the LORD in May 2005. In 2005 I had a car accident where my car was totally wrecked by going under a truck on a busy freeway, I got out alive with no major injuries.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:Christian music, Jazz, Classical music, Contemporary WEBSITES:none MOVIES:X-Men, James Bond 007 GAMES:none HOBBIES:RC airplanes

Program Goals - I would like to finally earn my Cisco certification in CCNA and CCNP and ultimately CCIE.

5 Year Plan - Lord willing, I would like to have earned a CCIE certification and manage a large enterprise network like Apple, Hewlett Packard or even AT&T.

Douglas H. of Plainview, TX - 05/06/09

About Me - My career in information technology started with Dow Jones & Co., Inc. "The Wall Street Journal". I was a field service technician servicing financial news networks and The Dow Jones Ticker Tape Machines for stockbrokers in the West Texas region for 17 years. I enjoy my brilliant 21 year old son, Justin, who is going to Texas Tech University studying architecture.

Life Inspiration - The most inspirational idea in my heart's desire is operating an internet marketing business, running on autopilot, and creating a substantial income.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:The Lord of the Rings; The Art of Motorcycle Mechanics; Classic Rock; Contemporary Country WEBSITES: MOVIES:The Lord of the Rings, Raiders of The Lost Ark, Star Wars GAMES:POOL; CARD GAMES; CHESS HOBBIES:ATV 4 WHEELING; CAMPING; HUNTING; WATER SKIING

Program Goals - I plan on getting my CCNA certification, at minimum, and possibly the CCNP certification in the near future.

5 Year Plan - I see myself living life to the fullest, with a very comfortable standard of living, traveling the world and seeing all the sights I desire.

Judah M. of Sierra Vista, AZ - 05/06/09

About Me - I am an Avid Physica Fitness, Yoga and Health enthusiast. I am a World Traveler, spending 22 years in the military Communication Branch. I was allowed to go around the World (Europe, Mediteranee, Middle East, Far East).

Life Inspiration - Walking in and out of Sadam Hussein Palaces in Iraq and Seeing the Gardens of Babylon in Baghdad,Iraq.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:History, Dummies, How to....../ Oldie Goldies WEBSITES:Cheaper than dirt, Wonderwall.beta, MSN, Google, AKO MOVIES:Rambo, Star Trek, Raiders of the lost ark GAMES:College Football, NBA HOBBIES:Nature Walks, Travel, Fishing

Program Goals - I expect a complete understanding of Communication Technology. Especially LAN/WAN, Cisco Equipment and Communication Security.

5 Year Plan - I Hope to be in the $100,000 Salary range. Working in Communication technology.

Elkhan Y. of Brooklyn, NY - 05/06/09

About Me - I am a dedicated individual.

Life Inspiration - Trump, Rome in Italy, Marketing.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:Onasis WEBSITES:cnn.com MOVIES:007 GAMES:Golf HOBBIES:Traveling

Program Goals - Get the training to get the job.

5 Year Plan - In management.

ANIL K. of CENTREVILLE, VA - 05/05/09

About Me - I am Anil working in IT field for past 15 years. I am happily married and have very adoring two beautiful kids. A girl and boy. I like to spend time on Systems a lot.

Life Inspiration - Gandhi & Einstein -- The greatness of these men were their simplicity. You get to learn a lot, and if you follow what they say you will be happy and content.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:Classical Flute WEBSITES:wikipedia, slashdot MOVIES:Too many GAMES:Cricket HOBBIES:

Program Goals - Learn the detailed and practical in and outs of 1 to 4 layers of networking.

5 Year Plan - I plan to see myself managing some secure network for DOD

Victor D. of Hempstead, NY - 05/04/09

About Me - I am an IT Administrator for the city of New York with the Police Department.

Life Inspiration - I worked with an international financial institution in Weehawken, New Jersey which was on the cutting edge of technology. I was a project manager interacting with various department heads that gave me the inspiration to some day be at the helm of a company's Technology Department.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:Dream from my father WEBSITES:godreamvacations.com MOVIES:Firewall GAMES: HOBBIES:Martial Arts

Program Goals - I already attended LAN/WAN Professional Bootcamp in March of 2007.

5 Year Plan - My goal is to be a Computer Operations Manager.

Kristopher L. of Concord, CA - 05/01/09

About Me - Recently unemployed commercial electrician trying to get some credentials that will make more marketable so that I may get back into the IT industry. Prior to being in the construction field I was a Network Administrator for Abbott Labs. I was young and at the time did not like being in a office environment so I made a career change. Now five years later having construction experience, I don't know what I was thinking!

Life Inspiration - Being laid off this past Nov 08. It was a real wake up call! I thought that I was invincible and had job security! It's going on five months and I am still unemployed. I feel that I have marketable skills but now with how the economy is the industry is just so saturated with professionals who have a lot of credentials. All I know is that I never want to stop educating myself because I do not want to feel the way I do now. I am hoping that this is going to be one of those forks in the road where I got kicked off the bull and got back up! This has been a real humbling experience!

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:Old Yeller, Where The Red Fern Grows WEBSITES:Google MOVIES:Scarface, Step-Brothers, Office Space, Any StarWars GAMES:Football HOBBIES:Playing with my children

Program Goals - I want to get certified as a CCNA and CCNP!

5 Year Plan - I hope to get my foot back in the door in the IT industry continuing my education in the industry.

Doug H. of Crestview, FL - 04/23/09

About Me - I am an honest, hard working guy who values his integrity the most. I learn things very quickly and I am interested in learning in just about everything. I have excelled in both technical and business administration careers. I worked in IT from 1981 to 2001 and held MCSE, Novell Master CNE and intstructor certifications for both Microsoft and Novell. In 2002 I joined a startup coffee franchise and became president of a tech company. We grew to 400 franchisees and 120 staff in just over 5 years.

Life Inspiration - Acknowledging my personal salvation, FCA CAmp at YMCA of teh Rockies 1974 Landmark Education Advanced course. Understanding how I was limiting myself and how to make anything possible.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:The Last Jihad, Left behind Series, Robert ludlum WEBSITES:yahoo.com, eq2wiki.com, facebook MOVIES:Classic movie, Romantic Comedy and Science Fiction GAMES:Board Games, Everquest HOBBIES:Coin collecting, Online RPG, Gardening

Program Goals - This course will update my IT skills andd offer me the opportunity to once again be recognized as a top Subject matter expert in the netowrking world. My intention is to join your CCIE program and become a Cisco network professional and consultant.

5 Year Plan - In 5 years or less I should be a well established consultant or in a role as a C-level Information technology manager.

Steven S. of Stockton, CA - 04/22/09

About Me - I am a father of three boys, one in the Marines and two in school. I've been working in IT for 13 years with 8 years as a Windows admin/engineer/architect, 4 years as a sales engineer, and 1 year as a security analyst. I am an elder at my church, a soon to be published author of a children's novel and I love to play golf and spend time with my family.

Life Inspiration - When I won the Kansas State Junior Golf Tournament. That was a defining moment because it showed me that dreams do come true if your willing to do what it takes to live the dream. It taught me a lot about faith in both the things you can and can't control and faith in myself and my abilities.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:Country, Reggae, Classic Rock WEBSITES:Facebook MOVIES:Transporter 1/2/3, Die Hard Series, The Incredibles, Happy Feet GAMES:Golf, Football HOBBIES:Golf, Woodworking

Program Goals - A much needer refresher of my network infrastructure skills to further enhance my resume and maybe some networking to enhance my job search capabilities.

5 Year Plan - As an IT consultant.

Steve M. of Wylie, TX - 04/22/09

About Me - I love to read and spend time with my family. When I'm with my grandchildren, I get in more trouble than they do :). I am currently out of work for the 2nd time in 2 years, and am getting cabin fever. I have been in the IT industry for the most part of my 29 year career, but due to being a Pre-Sales SE for the last 7 years, don't feel confident in my current skills. I enjoy working in teams and mentoring younger individuals and seeing them grow to their full potential. I enjoy being outside and keep active.

Life Inspiration - My 2 year old grandson inspires me constantly, because he loves me unconditionally. It makes me want to be a better person to better deserve his love. I want him to respect me as he grows up.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:Dean Koontz, Lee Child, 70's and 80's rock music WEBSITES:www.websudoku.com, Foxnews.com MOVIES:James Bond movies, comedies like Wild Hogs. GAMES:Sudoku, Uno, other card games HOBBIES:Golf, outside yardwork/gardening, collecting books and movies

Program Goals - I want to update my technical skills and broaden my talents, so I will have a better chance of getting back into everyday IT, and eventually management.

5 Year Plan - In some type of IT management position, possibly teaching/training in order to help others grow in their skills.

Dennis D. of Fairfield, CA - 04/21/09

About Me - I am a 58 year old white male, born and raised in Dubuque, Iowa. Took up an interest in music at an early age; played in concert, jazz, rock bands in high school and college. Joined Navy when I was 22 and stayed in for 20 years as a Navy musician and later as a Data Systems Technician. Married while I was in the Navy and divorced; have two grown children and a grandson. Worked as a Field Engineer for StorageTek and Sun Microsystems for 15 years, starting in 1993. Terminated from Sun in November 2008 because of economic conditions and struggles of the company to survive in the marketplace. As a Field Engineer, worked with installation, maintenance, and repair of robotic, tape, disk, storage, and networking devices in large and small businesses. Need at least 5-10 more years of career work to prepare myself for retirement. Cisco network certification would give my resume an excellent boost to help me find work in this tough economic environment.

Life Inspiration - Inspirational People: Jesus Christ, my mother, grandfather, sister because of the legacy of their lives and what they meant to me. I was able to learn courage and acting out of the values that I believe in and have vision and character to influence others who look to me as a role model.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:Health and Nutrition Books; Novels; Bible/ Jazz, Pop, Rock Music WEBSITES:Investing; Health/Nutrition; Music; Technology MOVIES:The Guardian; Dances With Wolves; Titanic; Gladiator; The Cutting Edge; Passion of the Christ; Pearl Harbor; Saving Private Ryan GAMES:Chess; Baseball; Golf; Pool; Horseshoes HOBBIES:Singing; Playing Music; Karaoke; Outdoor recreational activities (swimming, kayaking, outdoor sports, hiking, camping)

Program Goals - Training, knowledge and a boost to my resume which would look attractive to prospective employers and would provide a quantum leap to my chances of being hired in the near future and extending my career.

5 Year Plan - Immersed in my career as a network associate/professional, enjoying and getting fulfillment from the work that I do, plus earning enough and saving and investing wisely to prepare myself for retirement.

William C. of Lauderhill, FL - 04/20/09

About Me - I am an outgoing ambitious 29 year old, somewhat of a late bloomer, but I am getting there. I served 5 years in the United States Marine Corps and would like to finish college in the next 2-3 years, but I need to find a job that will allow me to do this.

Life Inspiration - I would have to say that the most inspirational moment in my life was while I was in Iraq, there I learned the value of humility, to always be thankful for what I have. I also learned that there are so many unfortunate circumstances in life for many people and that to truly make a difference in life you have to do something about it, not just talk about it.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:Book's are anything that helps me learn; music is hip/hop, electronic, jazz, oldies, rock WEBSITES:Google, solarwinds MOVIES:Braveheart, Troy, The Patriot, Emperors New Groove GAMES: HOBBIES:Martial Arts

Program Goals - I am looking for a program that will not just help me understand the logic of Cisco internetworking but also facilitate an enviornment that shows me a real world hands on approach. I have taken other classes before some were good and some were not so good, but none of them I felt gave the real world approach to learning and that is what I look forward to the most.

5 Year Plan - I would like to have a great job, possibly as a consultant, so that I can provide for my family and have job security, but also create a solid career path. I would also like to have my college degree in computer science/ electronics engineering so that I might make some of the crazy ideas I have in my head a reality.

Greg P. of Eden Prairie, MN - 04/16/09

About Me - I started working professionally in computers in 1975 and have seen computers and electronics evolve from discrete components, through RISC and CISC, to very powerful desktops and laptops. The network has evolved from proprietary protocols to the current internet. Have you ever used an acoustic coupler? Who remembers the Silent 700 as a remote system? My avocation is Skiing and ski instructing. I work for Afton Alps in Minnesota in the winters and have certified with the Professional Ski Instructors of America at level 2. My plans are to continue to work to certify at Level 3 (top).

Life Inspiration - Hard question. Still the creativity of inventing keeps me in computer science.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:Current military novels, especially US Navy WEBSITES: MOVIES:Star War series, anything with Jody Foster, and of course, Firewall GAMES: HOBBIES:Skiing and ski instructing, motorcycle riding and training

Program Goals - I want to certify as a CCNA and CCNP to demonstrate that I have the fundamentals to work in the corporate network. I would like more big picture context to understand where the network should evolve as we add new functionality and replace equipment. I have some security fundamentals from my firewall work, but want to improve the security of our internal network at ADC where I work.

5 Year Plan - A network leader within my company. The work that I do needs to be useful, so my goal to use the comapny's network as a strategic tool to provide the fundamentals that give my company a competitive advantage.

Carl B. of Houston, TX - 04/16/09

About Me - IT management professional with sixteen years experience including network admin, systems admin, database, software development and help desk.

Life Inspiration - The many stories of failure/success by Abraham Lincoln. Combine this with the many stories of great sports players. You have to risk and accept your failures to reach the ultimte goal. Be positive and know everything won't go right every time, but by focusing on solutions rather than the problems, you will end up at the top of success.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:Left Behind series of books, Christian pop music, Country music WEBSITES: MOVIES:Armageddon, Star Trek movies, Star Wars movies, Lord of the Rings movies GAMES:Spades, bridge, hearts HOBBIES:Music, camping

Program Goals - I want to ad CCNA/CCNP certifications to my skill set. I want to increase my Cisco skills to my work set to be abe to add value to more companies and improve my networking abilities to increase my value in the workforce.

5 Year Plan - I plan on managing IT/IS for a growing company by using my networking, project, and broad IT skill set to properly handle all aspects of IT/IS for best use in the business environment.

Claude M. of Auburn, CA - 04/13/09

About Me - 25+ years IT/Network professional. Designed, implemented and supported networks at several large Hewlett Packard campuses. Network Operations Manager for HP in the Americas region.

Life Inspiration - Birth of my first child. Overwhelming sense of responsibility.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:Books - same as movies - Music - Alternative, modern rock, clasic rock WEBSITES:eBay, google, craigslist, LinkedIn MOVIES:Comedies, Adventure, Mystery, Action GAMES:Golf, Tennis, cards, pool HOBBIES:Skiing, golf, hiking, home improvement

Program Goals - CCNP Certification

5 Year Plan - Network engineer or manager

Jonathan R. of New York, NY - 04/09/09

About Me - My name is Jonathan Rodriguez, and I'm currently seeking employment. The job hunt has proven to be highly competitive, long, and tiring in these harsh economic times, so I've been expanding my skills by absorbing any training or knowledge in other fields of interests to better my chances of acquiring a good, stable job. I tend to be a solitary person, but always respectful and professional with those I encounter. Displaying proper manners, and being an honorable person are two aspects of living that are very important to me.

Life Inspiration - I'm most inspired by Dr. Masaaki Hatsumi, Grandmaster of the Bujinkan Organization. His teachings and displays of control and understanding are elegant, masterful, almost majestic to watch. Simply observing him in action, inspires me to strive for the same level of understanding and peace he displays.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:J-Rock, Alternative, Metal, Classical, Opera WEBSITES:www.youtube.com, www.onemanga.com, www.newegg.com, www.imeem.com MOVIES:Braveheart, Sweet Rain, Watchmen GAMES:Metal Gear Solid series, Final Fantasy 6, 7, and 10, Xenogears, Ragnarok Online, City of Heroes/Villains, World of Warcraft HOBBIES:Listening to music, watching anime, reading manga, playing console games and MMORPGs, and physical training.

Program Goals - I hope this program leads to me acquiring the networking skills and certifications I need to enter the network security field as an asset to whichever company I end up working for. At the very least, I think I'll acquire knowledge in networking, that will add nicely to my other technical skills, making me all the more better at using the technology I use daily.

5 Year Plan - I see myself having a great job working with PC technology, whether it's network security, building and maintaining PCs, or all of the above, with a salary that allows for comfortable living in my city.

Gustavo D. of Norwalk, CT - 04/08/09

About Me - I am network engineer and I have been in this field for 8 years. I want to be able to pass my CCNA/CCNP so I can be close to reaching my goal which is to pass my CCIE. My real strength is my attention to detail. I pride myself on my reputation for following through and meeting deadlines which is very important in this field. When I commit to doing something, I make sure it gets done. Once I get to the point where I want to be I will be looking for a company where I can join a strong team and have a positive impact on customer retention and sales.

Life Inspiration - I would say Bill Gates is an inspiration. Gates was one of the most hated men in technology in the 1990s. The Microsoft chief had earned a reputation as a ruthless opponent who didn't mind breaking the rules to eliminate competitors. The result was that Microsoft became the biggest software company in world, and Gates became one of the billionaires on the planet. Then Gates decided to give his fortune away. In 1994 he committed hundreds of millions of dollars to charity, and established what would become the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Gates created a charity powerhouse that is already solving global problems. Hopefully, his example will inspire others to make an equal contribution.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:Networking Books, Instinct Based Medicine By Dr. Coldwell WEBSITES:Cisco, Microsoft, Geeks, Amazon MOVIES:Jurasic Park, Titanic, Lord of the ring, Double Jeopardy, The Fugitive. GAMES:Soccer, Baseball HOBBIES:Soccer, reading

Program Goals - This program will generate me a huge amount of knowledge. It will, at the least, permit me to develop and refine my skills to get where I want to be in regards of my career goals.

5 Year Plan - I love working in this field and I consider myself a fairly competitive person. At some point in my career, I'd like to be in a manager role since I've had success as a leader. Ultimately, it would be wonderful to be running a company, but that will be quite a ways down the road. As long as I continue to develop and grow, I can see myself in a career in this field for a while.

Brett M. of Eden Prairie, MN - 04/08/09

About Me - I am an IT manager, middle-aged husband, and father of five boys. I love to travel and spend time at home with my family. I like to be challenged at work and hate to be stuck in a rut.

Life Inspiration - The day I got married and the day I had each of my children. Nothing wakes you up to the beauty and importance of life more than that.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:In the Heart of the Sea, Neil Diamond WEBSITES:YouTube, Google MOVIES:Forrest Gump, Die Hard, High Noon GAMES:Wii, Basketball HOBBIES:Travel

Program Goals - More hands-on knowledge and training in the network arena and the ability to support my global network.

5 Year Plan - Working in the network/telecommunications arena in a senior management role.

David M. of Happy Valley, OR - 04/06/09

About Me - Married, father of two, Wyatt 5, Camille 1. I'm very relational, I love the social aspect of recreation and get in to things usually because friends are doing it, not because I have a deep seated passion for whatever it is I'm in to. That is, except for fishing and riding my motorcyle, which I've done very little in the past couple years due to being in management and dealing with cancer treatment. I'm also passionate about serving people. Whether it be for the less fortunate, or treating friends to dinner in my home. I endeavor to be the best husband, father, and friend that I can be, hoping to make a positive, long lasting impact on those around me.

Life Inspiration - I don't have one, I have many. But if I would have to choose one, it would be my late mother. She passed on from congestive heart failure in 1996, at the age of 56. She met my father in Thailand, became pregnant with me, then married my father, a member of the American Air Force. 10 months after I was born my father returned to Wisconsin with me, my mother, and two half-sisters in tow. My mother came to this country with a hope for a better life for her children.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:No particular favorites, I like Sci-Fi, Science, Christian Apologetics, non-fiction, and management books. For music, my interests range from classic rock to hip-hop and gospel to musicals. WEBSITES:Craigslist, Google, Wikipedia, FaceBook, and SlashDot. MOVIES:Iron & Silk, Only the Strong, Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon, Desperado/El Mariachi, Matrix (the first one), Minority Report, Mad Max, Riddick Trilogy, Gattica. GAMES:RainbowSix, Ultimate, Poker, Monopoly. HOBBIES:Cooking, Fishing & Motorcycling.

Program Goals - Refresh my exisitng knowledge of networking, build a solid foundation for the CCIE certification.

5 Year Plan - Either working for a company at a Senior level in all phases of Network Engineering or IT Info Security, or running my own consulting business providing Network and Systems design, implementation, integration, and sustaining. In either role, having the time to spend with my family and friends.

Jesse M. of Voorhees , NJ - 03/31/09

About Me - Fun loving, positive thinker; always open to differerent experiences, opinions, so I try to stay quiet as to not miss the world around me by running my mouth - but no problems speaking when necessary.

Life Inspiration - Not just one; any example of where a positive contribution to humaninty is accomplished while overcoming a huge adversity will humble me to remember how fortunate I am and how lazy to stop being at that moment; i.e. Stevie Wonder can play numerous intruments; visiting machu picchu - how they built all that in that time at that location; many more ....

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:Music - 70's funk, Jazz, Almost anything except country WEBSITES:Any sports content sites MOVIES:Blazing Saddles, Pulp Fiction GAMES:Playing/watching basketball HOBBIES:Music collecting

Program Goals - To support my many years of on the job IT experience with solid industry best/common practices.

5 Year Plan - Ideally, retired; realistically, involved with less operational support IT, more design, implementation, support.

Maher A. of Canton, MA - 03/30/09

About Me - Talented and experienced Network Engineering professional with Extensive experience configuring and administering Networks supporting corporate infrastructures. Detailed understanding of networking protocols. Excellent interpersonal skills, Keen ability to provide outstanding post-deployment support and troubleshooting.

Life Inspiration - The most inspirational moment is my son's birth 11 months ago, I felt more responsible and started looking at life from a different prospective.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:R&B WEBSITES:www.ebay.com MOVIES:Action/Thriller GAMES:Chess HOBBIES:Soccer

Program Goals - Advance my Career

5 Year Plan - A management Position

TChaka G. of Lithonia, GA - 03/29/09

About Me - I have worked in the IT field since 1980. I worked five years for Hewlett/Packard as a Computer Operator. From there, I went to work for the State of California working in a variety of Information technology positions. I enjoy watching sports, fishing, cooking, bowling and traveling. I enjoy people and I like to learn new things.

Life Inspiration - Watching Barak Obama become president.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:Jazz Music, No favorite book WEBSITES:N/A MOVIES:Casablanca, The Maltese Falcon, The Big Sleep GAMES:Chess, Playing cards, Dominoes HOBBIES:Fishing, Bowling

Program Goals - A CCNA/CCNP/CCIE certification.

5 Year Plan - Still working in the IT field as a consultant or maybe retired.

Arcady K. of Woodland Hills, CA - 03/27/09

About Me - I was born in Russia. I left my country in 1988 and after spending a year in Vienna and Rome arrived to Los Angeles, CA. I worked for big corporation like Toshiba, EDS, St. Jude Medical and Korn/Ferry International. I was laid-off from my last job in February, 2009.

Life Inspiration - Visit Paris. I've got a cultural shock.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:Ernst Hemingway, Jack London, Eric Maria Remark, Lion Feichntwanger WEBSITES:Google, CNN, Yahoo MOVIES:Terminator 2 GAMES:Soccer, hockey HOBBIES:Travel, collection Venecian carnival masks

Program Goals - I hope to find a job, and continue my Cisco training and education.

5 Year Plan - I would like to work as a Network Engineer in 5 years.

John T. of Palmdale, CA - 03/26/09

About Me - Native of Los Angeles, Ca. moved to Palmdale 25 years ago, worked as a computer support technician, systems administrator, Computer Operations support for the last 11 years. Most of my computer skills are self taught. also worked as a sales rep for an upscale wine and beer company.

Life Inspiration - My father, who taught me that to forge ahead, sometimes we have to do things we don't like instead of ignoring, not doing or pushing them onto others. The hardest or most distasteful tasks most often lead to the most rewarding accomplishments.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:Belgariad WEBSITES:dont have a favorite website...visit newsites alot tho MOVIES:Princess Bride GAMES:Holdem Poker tournaments HOBBIES:Computer networks, system builds, gold mining

Program Goals - I hope to get a CCNA/CCNP and perhaps quit losing bids or other employment due to lack of networking certifications.

5 Year Plan - Managing a NOC

Sally R. of Elkridge, MD - 03/26/09

About Me - In my most recent position, with Allegis Group for the last 2-1/2 years, I was part of a team of engineers who supported a network of ~250 remote offices connected to corporate headquarters via Private IP (PIP) / MPLS over T1, multilink T1, or T3. Each office was equipped with a Cisco 2851 (or larger) router; WAAS appliance, either built in or external; and two to twelve Catalyst 2900 or 3560 switches for user connectivity. I supported individual user issues such as network performance for a single user, and wireless and wired Ethernet connectivity troubles, as well as supporting the offices and acting as an interface with the telco in case of a network outage or major (office-wide) performance problems. At headquarters, we had a three-building, multi-floor campus with a 10 Gbps fiber-optic Ethernet backbone; a large data center environment with multiple Cisco Catalyst 6500-E switches in a core-distribution-access layer model; and a solutions lab. In 2007, I successfully upgraded our PIP and public Internet connections from single T3 to redundant OC3 connectivity. I recommended two Cisco 7609 routers with dual SUP-720-3B supervisor engines for the MPLS connections, and two Cisco 7606 routers for redundant Internet connectivity. I implemented these routers with a baselined IOS; performed acceptance testing with the telco for the OC-3 (and, in 2009, OC-12) circuits; and designed and implemented a BGP solution to prevent asymmetric routing to and from our remote offices and the data center, as well as the public Internet. I engineered and configured redundant connectivity and a failover plan for both sets of routers, as well as a multi-VRF solution to connect our offices in the United Kingdom, Europe, and India to corporate headquarters and the public Internet like our domestic offices. Over the course of 2008, our team of engineers redesigned and upgraded our entire data center switching environment from a 2-layer model (access/core) to include a distribution layer as well. I was part of the upgrade team, and was instrumental in spurring the decision to upgrade our data center access layer switches from 6513s with 6548 cards to 6509-E switches with 6748 cards when I learned that the 6548 card was not suited to the data center environment. This access layer upgrade was added into our data center core upgrade project, and after several months of planning and preparatory work by the team, was successfully implemented over the course of a weekend. I administered all of our network devices using Opsware/HP Network Automation System, and used NAS for policy enforcement for several configuration policies we established as well. Prior to leaving Allegis Group, I had begun to research a Quality of Service (QoS) solution that could be used for not only Voice over IP (which we hoped to implement company-wide over the next couple of years), but for limiting the amount of bandwidth consumed by streaming audio and video from the Internet, in order to improve performance for our remote office users right away. I was also investigating ways of better utilizing our WAAS devices by pre-positioning static content from internal applications to reduce the number of transactions from the remote location to corporate, and improve performance that way as well. My earlier experience ranges from carrier-level Internet installations for UUNET as an Internet Systems Engineer, and software support for InfoVista as the sole Product Support Engineer for the IVServer product for the Americas.

Life Inspiration - There are so many, it's hard to choose just one, but I'd have to say the desert southwest... it's just so gorgeous out there.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:Lammas Night by Katherine Kurtz; the Valdemar series by Mercedes Lackey... music? Anything and everything except gangsta rap... WEBSITES:www.nhl.com; www.theahl.com; capitals.nhl.com; www.salsphotography.com (mine!); www.theguildedage.net (also mine!) MOVIES:LotR trilogy; The Sound of Music; A League of their Own; The Princess Bride... GAMES:Trivial Pursuit; MUSHing HOBBIES:Photography; travel; watching ice hockey

Program Goals - Certifications, which I believe I need for professional development.

5 Year Plan - I'd like to be involved in network security, which is the direction I've wanted to carry my career for some time.

Patrick S. of Garland, TX - 03/25/09

About Me - I'm a former Operations Supervisor of an IT help desk and was apart of staff reductions after 8 years of service. I have had trouble finding work due to diminished technical skills as I made the mistake of solely focusing on the managerial aspects of my job instead keeping my IT skills fresh. I took some network courses back in 2000 but failed to capitalize on getting the relevant Microsoft certifications.

Life Inspiration - Making the decision to apply for this program and for once take control of my career!

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:Bible, Gospel WEBSITES:www.yahoo.com, www.espn.com MOVIES:Remember The Titans, Bad Boys I & II, Pursuit of Hapiness GAMES:NBA Live, NFL Madden HOBBIES:Fixing and restoring computers

Program Goals - I hope to achieve the satisfaction of finishing what I started many years ago and positioning myself to have increased option in the IT field.

5 Year Plan - I would like to earn a degree in an IT area towards technical management. I also would like to be current on all new and relevant Cisco certifications obtained after completion of this program!

Charles R. of Vestivia Hills, AL - 03/25/09

About Me - I am a father of exceptional son Dezmond who is eight years old; retired NYCPD, and have been a professional baseball player (minor leagues) and bowler. Mentor for at risk youth in Birmingham, ADHD advocate. Lilltle League Baseball coach, and also coached pee wee football, and basketball.

Life Inspiration - Watching my mother receive her nursing degree and addressing her graduating class after receiving her class Valedictorian nomination; doing this while raising 6 son's as a single parent and not working for 14 years prior to her attending Nursing school

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:Any Robert Ludlum, Moby Dick WEBSITES:Don;t have one MOVIES:Matrix Reloaded, Matrix, Star Trek, Man on Fire GAMES:World War II Sniper HOBBIES:Golf, shooting, hunting, fishing, hiking

Program Goals - Re-establish my expired certifications and to finally obtain my CCIE in the area of Security.

5 Year Plan - Director of a large Operations center for a company with a world wide foot print; or working for Home Land Security as a Director, or Vice President. Possibly a local congress man or state senator.

Julian W. of Houston, TX - 03/24/09

About Me - I am a 10+ year veteran of the IT industry. I started very young on computers and by the age of 14 was fixing, building, and selling PCs to acquaintances, and received a programming award my senior year of high school for creating a program to track the school's reduced lunch students. From there, I worked two years as desktop support and then another 7 in helpdesk support at a community college. During this period I expanded my IT knowledge in my personal time learning several breeds of UNIX (primarily Solaris), basic network setup/troubleshooting, and have learned to install, configure, and administer my own AS/400 system.

Life Inspiration - "The thinking that got us into this mess, is not the thinking that will get us out." is a phrase I try to live by, as many situations in life, and particularly IT, need to have different lines of thinking applied to them on a regular basis to solve them rationally and efficiently.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy, Stranger in a Strange land, Discworld series, The Police, Peter Gabriel, Genesis, Spacehog WEBSITES:classiccmp.org, lemon64.org, opensolaris.org, lordsofpain.net, thertegister.co.uk, google.com, meals.com MOVIES:Ghostbusters, Goodfellas, Spider-Man, The Road Warrior, The Pursuit of Happiness, Escape from New York GAMES:Space Quest, wrestling games, Microsoft Midtown madness HOBBIES:RPGs, hacking old computers, wrestling, cooking, collecting vinyl records, hacking Solaris and AS/400

Program Goals - I hope to expand my working knowledge of nertwork systems to pursue a career in this field.

5 Year Plan - I see myself in a position where I can combine several of my IT interests and make a big impact on the organization I am a part of.

Naimah M. of Brooklyn, NY - 03/23/09

About Me - Basically I'm a newbie to IT...still in the baby stage... but I'm learning fast. I'm a musician(vocalist) who needs to eat to sing.. and I work in the Govt.( trying to get out alive and sane)

Life Inspiration - After praying to find my dad and finding him a day after that prayer.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:Jazz/,,Funk Music,,, Books...African American Authors( Langston Hughes, James Baldwin, Octovia Buttler..Toni Morrison..etc,) WEBSITES:NYC Jazz Network...Craigslist...Ebay. MOVIES:Suspense,Drama GAMES:Rich Dads Cash Flow. HOBBIES:Reading...listening to music

Program Goals - To learn as fast as I can without taking so much time and costing so much money...and to learn right.

5 Year Plan - I see myself as a seasoned CCIE..in high demand.

Martin T. of Long Beach, CA - 03/20/09

About Me - I like spending time with my family. Will play a pickup basketball game. Like to use my time in a productive manner.

Life Inspiration - My first job as a computer technician because it was one of my goals that I worked hard.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:Jazz WEBSITES:Youtube MOVIES:Aliens Vs. Predator 2, Gran Torino GAMES:basketball HOBBIES:Playing the trombone

Program Goals - Information and hands-on experience to aid me with my career in networks.

5 Year Plan - Hopefully managing a network consulting firm.

Margaret S. of Tega Cay, SC - 03/19/09

About Me - I am an IT Project Manager for over 10 years. I live in SC just below Charlotte, NC. I own 2 cats and a 2005 red, convertible Mustang, the car I always wanted.

Life Inspiration - When I received an award for Best of Student work by ID magazine for a product design in transportation. I then took the project further, developing a Business Plan and obtaining a design patent. This taught me that I was capable of doing anything I put my mind to and to follow my instincts.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:Fingerprints of the Gods by Robert Buvall. Haven't read much lately due to time, like to read Discover Magazine, All music depending on mood WEBSITES:Lately, just started Facebook to hook up with Childhood friends, other than that job boards MOVIES:Braveheart, The Patriot, The Man who would be King, All Starwars Movies GAMES:Majong, puzzle games and all my Wii games HOBBIES:Golf, boating, fishing, online gaming

Program Goals - I would like to regain the knowledge in infrastructure that I had 8 years ago. After working on all types of projects in IT, the lack of expertise in one area is hurting my marketability in today's economy.

5 Year Plan - I would like to be an IT Director or be involved in Program Management for large infrastruture projects.

B.C.Salomon A. of Bellevue, NE - 03/18/09

About Me - I was born in Benin (West Africa) on April 27th, 1975. I grew up in the capital city Cotonou where I graduated from high school in 1994 and completed 3 years of college, major Planning and Statistics. After years of self-employment, I started computer studies in 2005 with an internship at the United Nations - International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda in Tanzania (East Africa) where I got my 1st certification on Windows 2000... Got here in the US in summer 2007.

Life Inspiration - Don't try to be good at every thing, or you will end up being intermediate everywhere; just be really good at one thing you are supposed to master, and that will cover for the lack anywhere else... says Salomon who chose Networking.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:African music (Côte d'Ivoire, Congo and Zaïre) WEBSITES:google.com MOVIES:Comedy GAMES:Table tennis, soccer HOBBIES:Table tennis, voyage, and lot of fun

Program Goals - More knowledge and even more practice.

5 Year Plan - A well-known CCIE and businessman.

Jesse M. of San Jose, CA - 03/18/09

About Me - I consider myself something of an odd duck. I am a computer geek, I grew up around them and started building them at a young age. Normally that relegates one to permanent nerd status. But I also served in the Marine Corps, volunteering for a job where I would be jumping out of airplanes behind enemy lines. And on Independence Day you can find me lighting off professional fireworks shows, sometimes by hand. So that trims the nerd factor down a bit, creating a combination you don't normally see.

Life Inspiration - My most inspirational moment was when I finished climbing the Reaper at the end of the Crucible in boot camp. Probably because I had just been through 12 weeks of hell and I had the flu during the three days of the crucible. I realized at that point that I could really do anything that I put my mind to.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:The Dune Series, Jack Ryan Novels, Harry Turtledove alternate histories WEBSITES:Google - I am a master of the search engine. Anandtech, LeftLaneNews and the drudgereport MOVIES:Star Wars (The Original Trilogy), Willow, Princess Bride, Transformers GAMES:MechWarrior 2, Just about anything by LucasArts, the Lego StarWars/Indiana Jones/Batman games. Chess and Axis & Allies for board games HOBBIES:Jumping out of perfectly good airplanes, camping, and professional fireworks

Program Goals - Some more training on Cisco equipment, perhaps learning a few tricks that I didn't know before. And of course to increase my market visibility to potential employers.

5 Year Plan - I see myself still working in IT, although with a higher level role than I currently work at - something that challenges me and pushes me to expand my horizons. I do my best when I am learning and having to come up with new ways to innovate to solve a problem.

John C. of Stone Mountian, GA - 03/18/09

About Me - I'm a Network/System Administrator for a non-profit organization in the beautiful city of Atlanta, GA. I've worked in the IT arena holding many positions everything from helpdesk to network manager.

Life Inspiration - My family is my inspiration. They are what moves me to accomplish great things.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:Various Books/The 80's music WEBSITES:Google, Yahoo, Cisco MOVIES:Star Wars, Troy, and The Godfather GAMES:Monopoly HOBBIES:Spending time with family.

Program Goals - I hope to gain better knowledge and understanding of the Cisco gear, and hopefully putting myself in a better position to sit for the CCIE exam.

5 Year Plan - In 5 years I hope to be in a management position utilizing my Cisco knowledge for my organization or an independent consultant.

Damone F. of La Habra, CA - 03/17/09

About Me - I love to run and weight train. I am a positive thinker and I believe you are in control of your life.

Life Inspiration - Seeing my once drug addict and street hustling uncle being sober and graduating with a Master's Degree in Sociology and heading a drug rehab center.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:The Enemy Called Average WEBSITES:Politico.com MOVIES:Dumb and Dumber GAMES:Call of Duty HOBBIES:Running on the Treadmill and Computer Tech.

Program Goals - I hope to get placed and to acquire the CCIE in 2011.

5 Year Plan - I see myself traveling and teaching Cisco classes.

Srinivas G. of parsippany, NJ - 03/15/09

About Me - Having a passion for Technology (Telecom,IT) I intend to build a career on it ...and has a wide range of Telecom application knowledge base...

Life Inspiration - Watching Prez Obama's inaguration on Jan 20 2009. Judgement, determination and decision+action matter MORE than experiences to overcome challenging times.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:Laws of Success - Napolean Hill, Motivational Books by Norman Peale, Jack Collins, Native American Flute tunes, Irish music..etc. WEBSITES:brainyquotes.com, ThinkTQ.com MOVIES:Cool Running, Brave Heart, Behind the Enemy Lines, Thin Red Line, Bourne Identity/Supremacy/Ultimatum,Black Hawk Down,Jackie Chan movies ...etc GAMES:Tennis, Basketball, Soccer, Athletics HOBBIES:Reading & watching general news, motivational stuff, enjoy

Program Goals - Augment my Network (IP) knowledge and help advance my career.

5 Year Plan - A Network Architect working with reputed organization, leading teams for value-added technologies.

Patrick M. of Brea, CA - 03/13/09

About Me - I'm 52 and recently retired (Feb) from AT&T, due to being declared surplus as they move IT jobs out of Calif. I have 29+ years of Telecom/IT experience which includes 8.5+ years in LAN/WAN network design and 5.5+ years in web application development. I have an MS in Mangement of Technology. I've spent my whole life in So Cal.

Life Inspiration - My two daughters. Wanting them to see what can be accomplished by anyone who believes in the self.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:Anything by Tom Clancy, Michael Crichton, Dan Brown / Jimmy Buffett WEBSITES:Food Network MOVIES:The Bridge on the River Kwai, Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, The Sting and Star War's Series. GAMES:Apples to Apples HOBBIES:Gardening, Golfing, Baseball, Volleyball

Program Goals - To gain the certifications I should have collected 10 years ago when I was designing Cisco networks.

5 Year Plan - My own consulting business

Jerry G. of Fontana, CA - 03/13/09

About Me - I joined the Navy after high school and had a great time while getting an Electronics education; I was able to visit many countries and was also on the first flying ship. I then took a job as a field technician where I became involved in the first IBM PC and fel in love with Computers. I have progressed to the MCSE level and continue to learn as much as I can about new emerging technologies. I also love to play hard either in the water or the dirt.

Life Inspiration - My most inspirational person is my wife who at 18 had the rug pulled out from her as she was just about to enter college her parents decided that since her sister dropped out they weren’t going to take the chance on her, and then after an abusive failed marriage sought out someone new. I was that new person we met on the Internet and married a year later since then she has started college and will soon have a BS in Sociology and is going on for her Masters. She does all of this while still working and caring for a child with epilepsy and many emotional and developmental problems.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:The Illustrated Man, War of the Worlds, All Music WEBSITES:Google (To find just about whatever I want) MOVIES:Top Gun, Jerry Maguire, 8 crazy nights, 50 first dates, I love comedies GAMES:Monopoly, Beer Pong, Cross Word puzzles HOBBIES:Jetskiong, Motorcyle/Quad riding, Camping, fishing, Having a great time with my wife and kids.

Program Goals - My ultimate goal is to become a CCIE I love the networking field and want to be at the top of my game. The CCIE credential is something that shows to everyone that you have worked hard at your field.

5 Year Plan - I would like to have reached my goal of becoming a CCIE and working either as a consultant or at a large firm where my talent and skills can be fully utilized.

Anthony L. of Los Gatos, CA - 03/13/09

About Me - I'm from the UK with a background in telecommunications program management. I have worked in product/service (SAAS) for the last 4 years and I'm looking to broaden/update my IT knowledge.

Life Inspiration - Working in different countries and experiencing different cultures.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:Jazz, I read for information. WEBSITES:Well designed ones. MOVIES:Walking in the clouds GAMES:Badmington HOBBIES:HiFI, Home projects

Program Goals - Clearer understanding of network technologies and certification.

5 Year Plan - Currently I have an issue with the next five months, but here it goes. I would like to advance my career in IT management while having an understanding of the underlying technologies through certification.

Carl M. of Dallas, TX - 03/11/09

About Me - Was in IT for 10+ years and re-entering field. My last IT related job was working for the District Attorney's Office - San Diego as an IT Engineer. Worked tier II/III LAN support & infrastructure implementation.

Life Inspiration - While at the District Attorney's Office I learned of their need to introduce streaming video into it's WAN environment. Six months prior to that I had done an independent study & thoroughly researched the technology so I resubmitted my proposal and executive management took action. This led to live streaming video of court cases & archives readily available to Deputy DA's for training amongst other things.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:Prisoner of Birth WEBSITES:Face book MOVIES:Swordfish GAMES:Monopoly HOBBIES:xbox

Program Goals - To get certified, land a respectable IT position with an enhanced salary, and broaden my skill set.

5 Year Plan - Running a cisco team for a service provider in client data centers.

Kim R. of Milwaukee, WI - 03/11/09

About Me - My name is Kim Rapier and I have been working in the IT field since 1990. I started out working as a desktop/pc tech.

Life Inspiration - When my children were born and every time I look into their eyes.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:Cisco Press / R&B, Hip-Hop, Blues WEBSITES:Google MOVIES:Remember the Titans, Gladiators, Closer GAMES:Basketball HOBBIES:Working Out, Boxing, Movies

Program Goals - My ultimate goal is to obtain my Cisco CCIE Certification.

5 Year Plan - In 5 years I would like to own an IT Consulting Company.

Sonnie D. of Richmond, VA - 03/01/09

About Me - I spent 4yrs in the US Navy and have worked in the financial services industry in a variety of IT support positions for 10 years. I was recently laid off and now I'm looking for another job. This program will help give my IT career a serious boost to make me more valuable.

Life Inspiration - The most inspirational thing that happened to me was my decision to go back to college and get my Bachelor degrees. That was cool.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:Fantasy Sci-fi books, Like all type of music WEBSITES:vikings.com, espn.com MOVIES:The Program, Aliens, Hardboiled GAMES:Card games HOBBIES:Being with family, being outdoors, tinker with electronics, movies, travel, beach.

Program Goals - I hope to greatly increase my understanding of networking especially with Cisco products. This program will give me the skills necessary to compete in today's market.

5 Year Plan - I see myself as a Sr Network Engineer or Network Administrator.

Venkat S. of Wayland, MA - 02/27/09

About Me - Senior Software Architect with 16 years of experience in software development.

Life Inspiration - The idea that: "when the going gets tough, the tough get going" - helps me stay strong in this horrible economy.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:Harry Potter WEBSITES:Linked In MOVIES:Back to the future GAMES:Games people play HOBBIES:Doing nothing

Program Goals - Want to augment my software development skills with network skills, so that I can grow in my career as an enterprise architect.

5 Year Plan - Enterprise Architect.

Kevin S. of Fort Lauderdale, FL - 02/27/09

About Me - I'm 44 and have been in I.T. most of my life. Started out at the bottom in corporate IT and worked my way up to Senior Manager of Network Services. The company I was with went out of business during the 2000 Dot Com Bust - 9/11 era. I currently own an I.T. installation company that does voice, data, and wireless installations for large retailers when they open new remote locations.

Life Inspiration - Most inspirational person is my wife Carole. We have been married for 13 years and have a son, Chance, who is nine years old. She is the one that always seems to make sense of things when times are bad and brings happiness into my family's life on a daily basis.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:All of John Grisham books and Jim Cramer and Jim Collins on the business side. WEBSITES:CNN, ESPN, South Florida Fishing MOVIES:Action, Espionage, Comedy films. GAMES:Not much of a gamer HOBBIES:Fishing, Beach, Golf and hanging out with the family

Program Goals - I hope to refresh my network and cisco skills and utilize my CCNA/CCNP certifications in my business to attrack new business from my existing and new customers.

5 Year Plan - Designing, installing, and implementing more mid to large corporate networks. Expanding my business to include more corporate clients and being able to work with the newest technologies.

Zandro C. of Frisco, TX - 02/24/09

About Me - A servant leader who wishes to use success in the IT Industry to give back to community. I currently own and operate a computer support franchise (Fastteks) and also work for a managed hosting company (Terremark). I have about 13 years experience in the IT Industry. Started from phone support, PC tech, System Admin, IT Manager, Network Engineer, to owning a small IT company. I have learned over the years that being a "Jack of All Trades" in IT does not get you the pay you long for. Working harder helps but Working Smarter is key. I do want to focus on becoming a Cisco Networking Expert. This will hopefully help me gain financial stability so it will give more time to serve the community.

Life Inspiration - Life's struggles. Growing up without parents I now see a blessing in disguise. It made me grow up faster and to work harder. It makes you appreciate what you have more and motivates you to do instead of think about it. I have identified my life mission. My Goal is to Touch Lives While Striving for Excellence in a World Full of Excitement!

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:Not a reader. Audio Books - 8th Habit by Steven Covey, All Music depending on mood (Rock, Rap, Country, Classical, etc.) WEBSITES:Google MOVIES:It's a Wonderful Life, Price of Glory, Gladiator, Office Space. GAMES:Not a gamer HOBBIES:Spending time with kids and family, Sports (Basketball, Football, etc.), Helping Community

Program Goals - As mentioned above, I do want to focus on becoming a Cisco Networking Expert. This will hopefully help me gain financial stability so it will give more time to serve the community.

5 Year Plan - CCIE certified. Find more time for family and spending more time with community service.

ROBERT R. of EVANSTON, IL - 02/21/09

About Me - I believe one of my characteristics that seem to stand out when I speak with people via phone or meet them in person is my humor and my unexpected antics(non-verbals) that sometimes can cause others to laugh. Most of the time you'll see me smiling because I enjoy life and laughter but I don't over do it when it comes to humor. On the flipside, I am an extremely focused person when it comes to getting down to business and working on a goal. I believe I am flexible in that I can work alone or work in group. I am content either way. I enjoy working with people to come up new ways to create things and work on community projects.

Life Inspiration - My most inspirational persons would be my mother, father, brothers, and sister who have all passed away. My most inspirational moments were enjoying the life they lived and being around them a lot that inspired me to carry on their visions they had in someway as I live out my own vision for life. Why? Because of all the issues they had to endure(regarding their health) yet each one remained joyous through it all. Each one of them gave me a lot of strength, insight, wisdom, laughter and patience in life.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:Music and spiritual books; Most types of music: Jazz, Gospel, Light Rock, R&B, Blues, Hip-Hop, Big Band, Classical, mixed genres, my own compositions. WEBSITES:Guitar Center.com, Google.com, Yahoo.com, Higherpraise.com, FoodNetwork.com, ESPN.com, YouTube.com MOVIES:Action-Romantic Comedies-Some Thriller, Comedy, Sports movies. GAMES:Monopoly, Madden(X360)-most sports video or PC games, Ping-Pong, Pool, Bowling HOBBIES:Creating and arranging music-beat making, cooking(innovating new dishes), Writing jingles.

Program Goals - I expect to learn, participate to the fullest extent possible in the labs, develop a working knowledge of Cisco networking material in order to have a clear understanding for not just passing the required exams for Cisco certification, but most of all have the sure understanding of the material so that I can have an impact in various industries. Also, I'd like to "take in" this bootcamp style of training to experience and learn a lot in a short time. Meet and network with people from around the country and perhaps the world to exchange thought. Most of all, go through the focused preparation in order to have two Cisco certifications accomplish by June 2009 and hopefully lead to having obtained a CCIE in the future. Just continue learning what the future holds for technology in networking.

5 Year Plan - I envision working as an independent contractor on high level Wireless WAN integration projects...at the same time I desire to work in the music industry somehow to bridge both my networking and music interests/foundations together.

Edward T. of Moreno Valley, CA - 02/21/09

About Me - My Name is Edward Trapp, I have been in and around IT/Is for 18 years; it really is the only work I have done since 1986. I have done mainframe, Mini and micro install, repair and platform integration with Novell Microsoft Banyan.

Life Inspiration - The Bible's Prediction of our time and situation and Obama winning the Democratic Party Nomination and The President of the united states

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:The hunt for red october WEBSITES:Two cows MOVIES:Matrix, Star Wars, Star Treck and any futuristic type of movies with substance. GAMES:Doom HOBBIES:Virtual travelling

Program Goals - I would like to get a better understanding of switching and routing really (under hood)

5 Year Plan - Retired and travelling, and doing the things I love to do! working with new ideas.

Oscar L. of Brentwood, CA - 02/20/09

About Me - I have worked for biotech, banking and healthcare companies but never had the opportunity of getting certified. I have a lot of experience in managing and supporting databases, but I would like to be highly qualified in networks and technical support. I speak fluent English and Spanish and I live in the San Francisco Bay Area since 20 years ago.

Life Inspiration - My most inspirational people is my own family: wife and 3 boys. I would do anything for them. No wonder I want to be a better person of what I am now.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:book: Called to Conquer by Eddie Long, Music: Soft Rock, and some Hard Rock WEBSITES: MOVIES:Waterworld, The Pursuit of Happiness, 300 GAMES:Madden NFL Football HOBBIES:Listening to music, reading books, watching movies and playing soccer.

Program Goals - I would like to be prepared to pass the CCNP test and be ready to work in no time in the areas of networking, wireless and security.

5 Year Plan - I see myself as a Manager or Director of an IT Department, and as a business owner of a computer consultant business oriented to small business and government contracting.

Edilsa L. of Lithia Springs, GA - 02/20/09

About Me - I am a working Mother of 2; been in IT for 12 plus years started as a Help Desk Tech right out of college, now I'm a Senior voice Engineer, but I need the certifications to match my skillsets.

Life Inspiration - I biked from North Carolina to Washington DC, in the 2002 AIDS Ride a total of 400 miles, and if I can do that I can do anything.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:I have quite a few books and music but I love Prince WEBSITES:Google, MSN, Facebook, Pandora MOVIES:The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, Purple Rain GAMES:Monopoly HOBBIES:Reading, Biking

Program Goals - My Expired CCNA certification - be certified once again in CCNP, so many jobs require that I have these certifications before they will even consider me, so my goal is to attain my CCNA/CCNP that way I can be more marketable and gain higher paying employment.

5 Year Plan - My goal is to attain my CCVP also and someday be a Technology Director, maybe teach Technology at a college.

Laura D. of Eustis, FL - 02/20/09

About Me - I am 45yrs old and have 2 grandsons; Logan age 2 & Darius age 7. I am a first time horse owner for about a year now, my horse's nick name is Delilah (registered name is Queen Nefertiti) she is a 15yr old Egyptian Arabian color is chestnut. I have been bowling on a league for the past 2 years with an average of 160. I find technology fascinating; I love working with Computers and networks; I also enjoy traveling and meeting new people.

Life Inspiration - I worked for Sears and Roebuck Co back in 1988 when they received their first computer system for the catalog department. We received basic training on how to use the terminal; I was amazed by it and picked up on how to use the system very quickly. After 3 months we had a visit from the technician who installed the unit. I was showing him how to retrieve information, he made the following statement “How did you learn how to do that, you are in an area I did not show you". It was at that moment I know I had a knack for and love working with computers and the possibilities it could bring.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:Technical reference books; Dan Brown; Classic rock; New Age; Jazz WEBSITES:Cisco Learning; Google; Facebook; MOVIES:Eagle Eye; Matrix Triology; Nothing to Lose; Six Days Seven Nights; How to lose a guy in 10 days. GAMES:Star Craft; War Craft; Age of Empires; Tetris; Blackjack HOBBIES:Bowling, Horseback Riding; Reading; Internet surfing

Program Goals - To obtain my CCNA and CCNP certification in order to advance my career while gaining a deeper understanding of Cisco IOS.

5 Year Plan - My future goal is to become a software programming, however I believe that in order to be good at one aspect a person must know and understand all the under laying part that make up the process as a whole. Therefore, I expect to be working as a CCIE in 5 years.

Dennis S. of San Francisco, CA - 02/19/09

About Me - My qualifications include: 9 years of IT experience. Learning and being able to train others quickly. Working well with management, coworkers, end users, and customers. Always being available to work extra hours. Communicating openly and honestly. Being MCSE 2003: Security, MCTS: Windows Server 2008, Exchange Server 2003 and 2007, Cisco CCNA, Network+, A+, and Security+ Certified. Having a detailed understanding of Windows products including Windows Server 2008, 2003, 2000, Active Directory, Exchange Server, XP, 2000 and NT. A solid knowledge of using remote connectivity and encryption programs. Experience handling top secret and confidential information. Experience performing hardware repairs and diagnostics on servers in data centers. Having a B.S. Degree in Information Technology and Associate in Applied Science Degrees in Networking Technology and Computer Technology.

Life Inspiration - My most inspirational moments have been being an effective and valuable asset to the companies that I have worked for. Other highly inspirational moments include passing past certification tests and being able to quickly and efficiently study for and pass future certifications with very high scores.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:AC/DC, Bon Jovi, Computer technical & training books. WEBSITES:Technical & training websites including www.microsoft.com, www.cisco.com, www.expertsexchange.com MOVIES:The Firm, Terminator 2, Pelican Brief GAMES:Chess, Othello, Monopoly, Risk, Scrabble HOBBIES:Computer networking, computers, traveling & visiting new places, meeting new people.

Program Goals - A solid understanding of Cisco products, the Cisco IOS operating system, and being able to quickly achieve my Cisco CCNP and Cisco CCIE certifications. Also, being able to use all of the skills and knowledge that I have acquired while passing my certifications to be highly effective in Cisco networking and being highly effective in my IT networking career.

5 Year Plan - As a mid range or senior network engineer with a Cisco CCIE certification. Also, highly successful in my career and being able to quickly solve any and all IT problems and challenges.

Wilson B. of El Paso, TX - 02/17/09

About Me - Well, I was born in El Paso, TX. I started playing sports when I was 9 years old and I stoped playing when I was about 40 years old. I stand about 6'7" tall and weight about 265 pounds. I went to University of Kansas on a basketball scholarship then I got drafted in the NBA. They sent me to Europe, Spain, for my three year contract. I played basketball in Spain, Germany, Italy, Mexico, and Brazil. I was brought back to El Paso, TX by a telephone call from my mother's doctor. He was not going to release her from the hospital until someone was there to take care of her. I asked him why he called me since my mother has three children and his answer was she told him to call me. Here I am.

Life Inspiration - About 18 years ago, I had an asthma attack and it was so difficult to breath, I told GOD to take me if it was time. I wake up so I push the limit all the time now.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:jazz WEBSITES:I do not have one which I could call my favorite. MOVIES: GAMES:basketball HOBBIES:Fishing, programming (web site)

Program Goals - I am hoping to get more knowledge about switches and routers that I do not know. I want to recertify my CCNA and go to the next level of the communication and telecommunication which is CCNP.

5 Year Plan - I will be the Chief Informtation Officer or Director of IT somewhere because I am tired of making other people look like they know what they are doing.(my boss)

Richard S. of San Jose, CA - 02/13/09

About Me - I have been involved in IT for a long time and by most people considered a "Geek". My concentration now is in IP network design, deployment and support which I have been doing for the past 8 years. My network troubleshooting skills are the area that provides the most personal satisfaction do to my strong analytical talents in spotting trends and patterns.

Life Inspiration - This may sound a bit "corny' but I find my Mom to be the most inspirational person in my life. My Mother did not have an easy life, but at the age of 92 still manages a positive outlook.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:Angels and Demons, Anything Tech oriented, Music-Classical to HipHop WEBSITES:E*Trade, Yahoo, TechRepublic MOVIES:One flew over the Cookoo's Nest, Star Wars (all), Great Escape. GAMES:Poker HOBBIES:Golf, Ice Hockey, Water Polo

Program Goals - Bare minimum is the CCNA certification

5 Year Plan - Beach in Maui

Lisa S. of Sugar Land, TX - 02/13/09

About Me - I took a very circuitous route to the IT field. My father was a diplomat and I grew up moving every two years of my life. I began riding horses as a child and when I graduated from college I started training horses, moved from that into medical sales and then into IT. My first IT job was a tough one, seeing as how I had to work with the "co-worker from hell." I held several jobs in the past 11 years including Help Desk, Desktop support, Software/System Test Engineer and Configuration Manager before being laid off three times in 5 years. I currently work at BP in Houston, TX. The work I do here is a combination between helping end users to managing conference rooms to ensuring real time data flow from onshore to our deepwater drilling platforms.

Life Inspiration - The most inspirational place I have ever been was as a nine year old when our family visited the Machu Pichu ruins in Peru. I can still close my eyes and picture the place like I was there yesterday. My husband is an inspiration to me, he has been a brittle diabetic for 35 years and never complains that he does not feel good (even when I know he doesn't) and he supports me fully in whatever I want to do.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:Books - anything by Dean Koontz music - classic rock WEBSITES:Google MOVIES:The Godfather, Weird Science, Independence Day. GAMES:Mexican Train, Sudoku HOBBIES:Horse back ridding, swimming, sewing and Shopping!

Program Goals - When I finish this program I want to have the knowledge, hands on experience and confidence to get the job I want and not just have to settle for whatever job is offered.

5 Year Plan - Working with a team of network professionals that are an integral part of a value adding IT organization and are never considered when budgets cuts and layoffs are taking place.

Max B. of San Diego, CA - 02/12/09

About Me - I have been in the IT Profession for over 10 years and worked for major Wall Street companies like Bear Stearns and JP Morgan. I moved from NY to San Diego for a better quality of life. The nice weather and San Diego Beaches are why I’m staying here.

Life Inspiration - Bear Mountain, CA. Standing on top of the SKI Slope looking down ? The fear, the adrenalin, taking the plunge down the hill and the success.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:Music for the 60s, 70s and 80s, Soft Rock, Pop Music WEBSITES:www.yahoo.com MOVIES:Wedding Crashers, Aviator. GAMES:Chess HOBBIES:RC Air Planes

Program Goals - CISCO Certification, Microsoft Certification, Job Placement Assistance

5 Year Plan - A Lan-Wan Professional working at a major corporation. Living in a nice home not too far from the beaches.

Robert S. of Greeley, CO - 02/12/09

About Me - I am a seasoned IT/Telecom professional. I am a Colorado native. I have had only 3 employers in the last 30 years. I owned my own business for 16 years in the heart of the Colorado ski country. I was layed off from my last job with only 6 hours notice.

Life Inspiration - I was a Captain on the Glenwood Springs Volunteer Fire Department in 1988. I was summoned to an explosion and fire at the Rocky Mountain Natural Gas company offices @ 8:05am Monday October 9th in Glenwood. My Company (Custom Communications) serviced the telephone system in that office so I was personally aquainted with all of their employees from the President to the mechanics. When I arrived on scene their 3 story building had been reduced to a huge pile of flaming rubble and we were met by gas company employees that had been blown clear of the building in the inital blast, telling us that there were 15 people trapped in the building. I headed up one of many rescue efforts. I commanded a team of 7 men made up of volunteers from two different city fire departments. My area of the building was coincidentally where the phone room was. My team was able to saw a hole in the concrete ceiling to save an employee who had fallen into the phone room when the building came down. During the rescue effort I saw the $50,000 dollar phone system get crushed by a backhoe clearing debris from out of our way. I was thinking to myself that I had worked on that very system just the Friday afternoon before the explosion and how I could have been in that very room had I delayed their service call. I learned several lessons that day. #1 What seems important one day may not be around the next. #2 Perspective is everything #3 never delay to another day what you can do today. #4 Luck is in the eye of the beholder. #5 Teamwork is how really big things get done. We were able to rescue 3 people that day and had to recover the other 12 over the next 36 hours. After that incident I was able to see that my problems were trival and that helping others was truly my calling.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:All of Tom Clancy's novels WEBSITES:www.erlang.com MOVIES:Top Gun, Independence Day, Max Payne, Blade Runner. GAMES:Poker; 5 card & Texas Holdem HOBBIES:Photography.

Program Goals - I want to get certified on Cisco network appliances to increase my value to my future employers.

5 Year Plan - I see myself as the Director of IT for a mid-cap corporation.

Joseph J. of los angeles, CA - 02/11/09

About Me - IT professional for 12 years. Graduate from USC business school and veterans of the Air Force.

Life Inspiration - Decision to enter University. I recall the utter determination and drive that overwhelmed me when I made the decision.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:Jazz WEBSITES:ESPN MOVIES:Drama GAMES:Football, Basketball HOBBIES:Outdoors

Program Goals - Real hands on nerworking experience and preparation for certification.

5 Year Plan - Successful Internetwork Professional.

Douglas D. of Washougal, WA - 02/11/09

About Me - I have been in the Technology field since I got out of college in 87. I have mostly worked in Networking, but have a broad range of knowledge of the industry. I was newly married a year ago and that is working well. I have 3 wonderful kids. I am hoping that this training will take me to the next level with my career.

Life Inspiration - I want to live everyday like it is my last and take care of everyone around me. Jesus Christ is the largest inspirational person in my life. I am a Christian and have found out recently that it does not matter what circumstance you live in; you can still have peace through Christ. I know, I know what you might be thinking.. But it really works!

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:I like all music except rap. WEBSITES:www.duncanrealty.org, yahoo, and google MOVIES:I like all movies except horror. GAMES:New family game is cranium. HOBBIES:Golf, and hanging with wife and kids.

Program Goals - CCNA/CCNP will help me achieve the income and career level I desire. I am very hopeful.

5 Year Plan - Within IT, I would see myself in a IT management role or working technology projects throughout the world.

Dennis C. of Chesterfield, MI - 02/11/09

About Me - Currently in my second year of a bachelors of computer science at Lawrence Tech University in Southfield, MI.

Life Inspiration - My father is always very supportive of my educational goals and he helps me mentally when I am pursuing my goals.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:Rock WEBSITES:consumerist.com MOVIES:Comedies, action movies, crime dramas. GAMES:Gears of war HOBBIES:Xbox 360, upgrading my computer.

Program Goals - I hope to land and entry level job in the networking field so I can build up experience to back up my bachelors degree that I will attain in the future

5 Year Plan - A graduate of lawrence tech working either in networking or scripting.

Clarence T. of West Hartford, CT - 02/11/09

About Me - Have been an IT professional since 1995. Career interest is IT Security.

Life Inspiration - Completing my first Business Plan and the election of Barack Obama.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:Count of Monti Cristo, Cisco Training WEBSITES:HuffingtonPost, Cisco.com, Google.com, aol.com MOVIES:Weathering Heights GAMES:Monopoly HOBBIES:Reading

Program Goals - Renewal of my CCNA and successful completing the CCNP certification.

5 Year Plan - Would like to be leading an IT division in the next three years or running my own IT security firm.

Kaushal T. of Chico, CA - 02/11/09

About Me - Calm, Composed, Energetic, Focused.

Life Inspiration - When my father finished his training at Sweden. He was the only one to be selected all over India to go to Sweden for that training.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:Basshunter WEBSITES:www.google.com, www.wikipedia.com, www.time.com MOVIES:Tears of the sun, Van Wilder, Man on Fire GAMES:Football, Cricket, Tennis HOBBIES:Karate, Swimming

Program Goals - Improve and Extend my knowledge in the field of networking and communication.

5 Year Plan - Working as a Manager or Security and Networking Consultant for a successful firm.

Blake J. of Little Rock, AR - 02/10/09

About Me - I have worked in the Telecommunications industry for 7+ years now; while I lived in St. Louis, I worked for WorldCom. I was very much dismayed at WorldCom's demise and decided to get out of the Telecom sector for a while. I went to Nursing school at Baptist Hospital School of Nursing & Allied Health in Little Rock, AR, for 3 semesters; I did not graduate and have not pursued anything further toward being a nurse; my heart was just not in that field. Eventually I landed a job with a great company known as Nuvell Financial Services; I worked in their Telecom Dept. to monitor, program, and develop their PBX systems and telecom infrastructure. I was promoted there to a Telecommunications Systems Analyst and was put in charge of higher-level projects such as evaluating VoIP telephony initiatives. Alas, as we were a GMAC Financial Services subsidiary, change was inevitable; I decided to leave there after 2-1/2 years and found a "core" Telecom company known as Windstream. Windstream is a spinoff of the old Wireline Systems Division of Alltel--a national cellular carrier; as such, we are considered an ILEC in some areas & a CLEC in others. My goals at Windstream include getting certifications in Cisco & Juniper technologies. As I am in the BTAC (Broadband Technical Assistance Center) group, I am in charge with provisioning, testing, troubleshooting, and turning-up DSL services for mostly rural customers; therefore, I also expect to get certified in some of the DSLAM systems we use such as Calix, Adtran, & Wave7; I plan to become an SME in FTTP and network configurations involving fiber rings.

Life Inspiration - When immersed in Cisco studies.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:Conversations with God by Neale Donald Walsch, the Celestine Prophecy. WEBSITES:amazon.com, mycorporateperks.com, nws.noaa.gov, cnn.com MOVIES:Contact, Fried Green Tomatoes, Eagle Eye, Star Trek. GAMES:N/A HOBBIES:Reading, chatting, cooking, exploring/tasting wine, being w/ friends, eating out, movies.

Program Goals - In obtaining my CCNA & CCNP certifications, I hope to eventually go for my CCIE. I hope to use my skills & knowledgebase to help control, streamline, and better utilize the vast volume of information flowing through the Internet. Hopefully, I shall get good enough to even come up with new algorithms for data flow in an IP network.

5 Year Plan - I shall be heading up an engineering division at a global networking corporation helping other companies improve their data flow processes & efficiencies.

Robin P. of brooklyn, NY - 02/10/09

About Me - I love to learn new things, always looking for a new way of learning. I enjoy my job and what I do for living as an IT professional and I am just looking forward to be the best that I can be.

Life Inspiration - Well there are two people that are my true heroes. My aunt and and my mother are the most brave people I ever ever seen. For one, my mother is the only one of 9 children to not only finish high school but to graduate with honors as an public accounted. On the other hand my aunt after losing all her money in Dominican republic she came with her three kids to USA looking for the American dream. It took her a while but after 8 years she went back to college and now is working as a manager of the accounting department for one of the major accounting firms in NYC.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:Don quijote de la mancha, Lestat WEBSITES:yahoo.com MOVIES:The matrix, gladiator. GAMES: HOBBIES:Dance, reading

Program Goals - The main goal for me with this program is to get my CCNP and become a great network engineer. There is alot of potential at my job for someone with those credentials and also my dream is to become a CCIE

5 Year Plan - I would like to be already an experienced CCIE maybe as a consultant or working for cisco or a great company.

Tim S. of Walnut Creek, CA - 02/09/09

About Me - As a successful Systems Administrator with six years of experience, I am confident that I would excel in any Support/Systems Administrator roles that may open at The Ascent Services Group now or in the future. My background in Linux, OSX and Windows platforms will allow me to make numerous contributions to The Ascent Services Group's success. On top of my experience as a Sys. Admin, I also have experience in Web Development, specifically in the areas of HTML/CSS, PHP, Shell Scripting, and LAMP environments. I have a proven track record of providing outstanding computer support for a diverse array of employers from corporations to schools. As the Site Support Technician for Mt. Diablo High School, I led the migration from Windows 2000 to Windows XP for 260 desktops and a server upgrade/rebuild from Windows Server 2000 to 2003. By working closely with staff and communicating project goals and work plans, I completed the migration three weeks ahead of schedule with minimal interruption to the students and staff. In addition, my skills with HTML/CSS and PHP has helped me design, build and maintain five successful websites. I am now interested in making similar contributions to benefit The Ascent Services Group.

Life Inspiration - Steve Jobs' commencement speech, Steve Wozniak's book "iWoz"

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:All music excluding Rap/Hip Hop WEBSITES:Google MOVIES:Bourne Trinity, Finding Nemo, Accross the Universe. GAMES:Monopoly HOBBIES:Web Devolopment

Program Goals - I hope to continue my search for knowledge in the field of IT. My goal is to start heading down the road of Networking and Internet Technology.

5 Year Plan - I Hope to be working for a company doing great work to improve our world as a Senior Network Administrator.

Ken C. of Rowland Heights, CA - 02/09/09

About Me - I am an Information Security Project Expert with over 15 years experience directing cross-functional teams of technical experts to analyze products, network, systems, security processes, computer forensic procedures, electronic discovery, incident response processes, and implement infrastructure improvements. My experience in project management has over 6000 non-overlapped hours. My number one hobby is martial art. I have practiced martial art for over 20 years and with the last 4 years I am focusing on Wing Chun. I also enjoy action and sci-fi movies.

Life Inspiration - When immersed in Cisco studies.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:Kung fu WEBSITES:www.cnn.com MOVIES:Aliens GAMES:Wii HOBBIES:Kung fu

Program Goals - I want to update my Cisco knowledge to enhance my overall IT security area, and I would like to get my CCIE in the near future.

5 Year Plan - In five years I should have my CCIE, Ph.D. (done) and J.D., MBA (done) and Master of Criminal Justice and be an expert witness and Cisco networking expert.

JOSEF Y. of PLANO, TX - 02/08/09

About Me - I am a very technical person as well as very business oriented. I liked my studies in business school and it was one of my best things I did ever in my life. I enjoy every moment with my family and appreciate the power it gives me. I like to travel and see new places (I wish I could live on each one of the places for a bit).

Life Inspiration - I am involved now in a start-up and met amazing people with great ideas that inspired me a lot. One great moment was that I really could understand trully the potential of the venture and came with additional added values.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:Bands: Interpol, Placebo, BlackField, Travis, Talk Talk ... , Books: Mostly in Hebrew ... WEBSITES:Themarker.com, calcalist.co.il, bnet.com, wsj.com, hebrew news paper websites, musicaneto.com MOVIES:StarWars, Apocalipto, Stranger like fiction, cold mountains, The notebook, big fish, sex and lucia, Black Book, Life of Others and many more .... GAMES:Soccer, basketball and football. HOBBIES:Photography, concerts, traveling, writing

Program Goals - I hope to complete my knowledge in network and to find a job that can incorporate the technical knowledge with my business background and experience. I will consider the CCIE base on the results of the CCNA and CCNP experience.

5 Year Plan - I see my self as the Director/VP of business development and strategic alliances in a company.

Jessica E. of New York, NY - 02/07/09

About Me - I live and work in New York City. Until a few months ago I worked as an IT project manager for a large PR firm on Wall St. I managed mostly infrastructure projects in overseas branch offices. Like millions of other Americans, my job was cut at the beginning of the recession.

Life Inspiration - Getting laid off has forced me to reevaluate my life and consider what is really important to me. My family has been very supportive and that inspires me to work even harder.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:The Tipping Point, anything by Carson McCullers, listening to a lot of Leonard Cohen lately. WEBSITES:The Daily Beast, Gawker, Gmail MOVIES:Too many to mention GAMES:Don't really play games, but I'd like to learn Mah Jong HOBBIES:Travel, writing, photography

Program Goals - I've always been sort of an IT generalist and I'm hoping that focusing on one skill set--networking--will improve my chances of getting another job.

5 Year Plan - Maybe as a network admin or project manager with special focus on networking projects.

Patrick H. of Robbinsdale, MN - 02/07/09

About Me - I am a ten year veteran in the industry focused on Voice and VoIP. Recently laid off, and looking to become more marketable by gaining more credible expertise in data. Also looking to get a foundation to launch a new career focused on Cisco and Cisco Unified Communications.

Life Inspiration - The wheel. One of the first inventions that has helped inspire/contribute to so many more over the years.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:CCNET ICND1 Official Exam Certification Guide WEBSITES:Google MOVIES:Reservoir Dogs. GAMES:Poker HOBBIES:Poker

Program Goals - A foundation to launch a new career focused on Cisco and Cisco Unified Communications.

5 Year Plan - Helping organizations implement complex Unified Communication solutions as a CCIE voice professional.

Ron F. of La Center, WA - 02/06/09

About Me - I was in the computer field for over 15 years until I got laid off in the late 1990's. The dot com thing was headed south and I hadn't kept up my education so I took whatever job I could find, mostly low paying, unskilled positions. I hated it so I took a year off to take the Cisco CCNA courses at our local community college. I took the Intro test and passed, took the CCNA test three times and couldn't pass. I am determined to get my certification and get back in the IT field.

Life Inspiration - My daughter and grandkids have inspired me to get a good-paying job to help them and be able to spend more time with them.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:Science Fiction, A Brief History of Time, Eric Clapton, Country Music WEBSITES:billoreilly.com, Drudge MOVIES:Ironman, Unforgiven, Fight Club, Chinatown, Porky's GAMES:Games? HOBBIES:Yard work, photography, travel

Program Goals - I want to take and pass the CCNA test by the end of March.

5 Year Plan - Planning my retirement in the next year or two.

James B. of Newnan, GE - 02/06/09

About Me - I live in Atlanta but I'm originally from Chicago. I am divorced with 2 children (boy/girl). I recently worked as a Systems Ops Admin for a law firm for 9 years. Before that, I was in the Air Force working in Telecom. I basically live, eat and sleep computer technology. IT is more than a job or career to me. It's who I am and what I love to do.

Life Inspiration - My mother. She is a strong influence in my life and her struggles & accomplishments throughout her life has inspired me to never stop seeking knowledge and bettering myself. Regardless of whatever obstacles life throws at you. Keep moving forward.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:Jazz, R&B, HipHop, Classic Rock WEBSITES: MOVIES:Forest Gump, Curious Case of Benjamin Button. GAMES:Chess, Billiards HOBBIES:Computers/Technolgy, Music

Program Goals - I hope that this will lay the foundations for what I deem is the next level in my journey thru the IT field. Cisco is the final frontier in my eyes and I want to master as much of it as I possibly can.

5 Year Plan - Senior Network Engineer for a reputable firm, and hopefully CCIS certified.

Luke P. of Seattle, WA - 02/06/09

About Me - I'm a project and program management professional with 10 years of technology project experience in the IT industry. My project focus areas have been in Telecomunications, systems management, web services, security, and software development.

Life Inspiration - Finishing grad school. I really learned to enjoy school.

My Favorites - BOOKS/MUSIC:NA - I use those as security reminders. WEBSITES:MSNBC, CNN MOVIES:War Games GAMES:Football HOBBIES:Skiing, mountain biking, and running.

Program Goals - In depth and relevant hands on experience with CISCO telecommunications equipment. I want to achieve CCENT and CCNA certifications at a minimum and strongly position myself to obtain a CCNP. Beyond the course, I'd like to achieve my CCIE with specializations in wireless, voice, and secure routing and switching.

5 Year Plan - Further managing telecomunications and software development projects.