The Official IT Thread

[traestar]

Starting a Data Analytics Master's program next month. I'll be studying SQL (Structured Query Language) R programming, Python, Tableau, Hadoop, Predixion, and SAS.

I have some innovative ideas I want to implement with this skillset. I participate in "professional" calisthenics (progressive body-weight movements from pushups, situps, pullups & dips) to planks, muscleups, full planche, etc.

I'm going to develop an application for "noobs" through data analysis based upon their diet, body type (endo, meso, ecto) to be able to perform these body-weight exercises. The future (especially with the popularity of social media) of data manipulation, and data visualization is exponential.

I post primarily on this platform for statistical research purposes. It's really interesting to see what post gets the most reaction--based upon the litany of "reaction" tools available.

My preliminary reports indicate:

- Sarcastic parsimonious posts tend to generate lots of lol reactions

- Long thought out personal posts about socio-cultural issues tend to generate Ether and Goats

- GIFS/Memes tend to generate lol & ether reactions

- A post that tends to deviate from the socio-political mean, tends to generate wacks & feelings

After I get to a certain number of posts--to increase my sample size, I'll be able to ascertain the implications of what the data reveals so posters can maximize visualization of their posts by using revamped graphic highlighting techniques based on the data.

Are you apart of a bootcamp or are you using any of the MOOCs

 

[the dukester]

MOOC's (Massive Open Online Courses?)

Naw. I'm presently taking Python in Coursera through University of Michigan. The Masters of Science in Data Analytics program is through UMUC (University of Maryland University College.)

I thought about going the "cert" route in order to fast-track my way into a high paying job. However, I already have two degrees, and obtaining my Masters will definitely make me stand out.

Once a week I do participate in a crowdsourced meeting where we discuss new innovations regarding Data Science.

How do these "bootcamps" work?

 

[traestar]

MOOC's (Massive Open Online Courses?)

Naw. I'm presently taking Python in Coursera through University of Michigan. The Masters of Science in Data Analytics program is through UMUC (University of Maryland University College.)

I thought about going the "cert" route in order to fast-track my way into a high paying job. However, I already have two degrees, and obtaining my Masters will definitely make me stand out.

Once a week I do participate in a crowdsourced meeting where we discuss new innovations regarding Data Science.

How do these "bootcamps" work?

Yep Massive Open Online Courses. Yea that Python course is a MOOC. I like the specialization courses and I feel in the future this would be a great alternative to learning from college.
https://www.coursera.org/specializations/python

You get to learn better on that particular skill and create your portfolio all in one go.

A bootcamp could also be online but some places like NY offer on campus bootcamps. Basically it's structured like the course you're taking, but it focuses on the actual job, for instance web developer, data scientist, etc. So it's not just Python, they teach you PHP, CSS, M.E.A.N stack, etc. and also depending on the program they may cover other skills like sales, marketing, management, etc.

I think the Pro is that they could potentially land you a position after finishing the course. The Con is compared to the course you're taking, you're basically paying tuition.

Here's an example from General Assembly:
https://generalassemb.ly/education/web-development-immersive

 

[the dukester]

Thanks fam. I appreciate the information. I initially took the Cousera Python to introduce myself to the fundamentals of coding in an online format (I've taken similar coding classes in a on-site lecture based format as well.)

Since the Master's program is all online, it makes sense to acclimate myself to this particular format via Cousera.

I did tons of research about MOOC's (Cousera, Udacity) regarding their credibility (The certificates) and usefulness (Preparedness for on the job readiness.)

Indeed according to http://www.theskinny.co.uk/tech/features/moocs

The cons of MOOC's like Cousera are the structure of non-credit classes that are given by the University, but not "recognized" by the university. Oxymoron much??

I view them as prerequisites, or introductory models to gain familiarity with the course content, rather than making it as the centerpiece of one's resume showcase of academic accomplishments. In sum, a credit class taken from University of Michigan (with an A grade on your official transcript) in Python, versus, a "certificate of completion" in Coursera in Python, via University of Michigan, in my opinion is comparing apples & oranges.

It's similar to taking a continuing education course at a local community college. You pay a modest fee, you don't get an official grade (pass/fail) for it as long as you show up. Etc.

If I had to do it all over again I would have gotten a 2-year degree in IT, and "certed" the fuck up!! Oh well, can't let spilled milk keep a ninja stagnated. Thank goodness my job is paying half of my Grad school tuition, otherwise, I'd be banging a empty bean can with a no.2 pencil begging "Fannie" (Mae) I have some coin??

 

[traestar]

Thanks fam. I appreciate the information. I initially took the Cousera Python to introduce myself to the fundamentals of coding in an online format (I've taken similar coding classes in a on-site lecture based format as well.)

Since the Master's program is all online, it makes sense to acclimate myself to this particular format via Cousera.

I did tons of research about MOOC's (Cousera, Udacity) regarding their credibility (The certificates) and usefulness (Preparedness for on the job readiness.)

Indeed according to http://www.theskinny.co.uk/tech/features/moocs

The cons of MOOC's like Cousera are the structure of non-credit classes that are given by the University, but not "recognized" by the university. Oxymoron much??

I view them as prerequisites, or introductory models to gain familiarity with the course content, rather than making it as the centerpiece of one's resume showcase of academic accomplishments. In sum, a credit class taken from University of Michigan (with an A grade on your official transcript) in Python, versus, a "certificate of completion" in Coursera in Python, via University of Michigan, in my opinion is comparing apples & oranges.

It's similar to taking a continuing education course at a local community college. You pay a modest fee, you don't get an official grade (pass/fail) for it as long as you show up. Etc.

If I had to do it all over again I would have gotten a 2-year degree in IT, and "certed" the fuck up!! Oh well, can't let spilled milk keep a ninja stagnated. Thank goodness my job is paying half of my Grad school tuition, otherwise, I'd be banging a empty bean can with a no.2 pencil begging "Fannie" (Mae) I have some coin??

Thanks for the link, I'll check that out!

The cons of MOOC's like Cousera are the structure of non-credit classes that are given by the University, but not "recognized" by the university. Oxymoron much??

I view them as prerequisites, or introductory models to gain familiarity with the course content, rather than making it as the centerpiece of one's resume showcase of academic accomplishments. In sum, a credit class taken from University of Michigan (with an A grade on your official transcript) in Python, versus, a "certificate of completion" in Coursera in Python, via University of Michigan, in my opinion is comparing apples & oranges.

It's similar to taking a continuing education course at a local community college. You pay a modest fee, you don't get an official grade (pass/fail) for it as long as you show up. Etc.

You know what, it's the big issue going on right now with these universities. I think the effectiveness and the value of the college degree is declining. Many people are stuck with student loan debts and in hopes of landing a job after college, they put all of their energy towards college. If you relied on that information going in and still do not have a job around your major, half of that blame would go to the material learned from the school. I could contest to this, that's why I'm heavy on Coursera and Udemy.

If I had to do it all over again I would have gotten a 2-year degree in IT, and "certed" the fuck up!! Oh well, can't let spilled milk keep a ninja stagnated. Thank goodness my job is paying half of my Grad school tuition, otherwise, I'd be banging a empty bean can with a no.2 pencil begging "Fannie" (Mae) I have some coin??

Nah I would never do it over again, because I knew coming out of high school that no matter what value that bachelor's degree would have down the road. I knew that if I didn't finish now and waited later to get it, I wouldn't even get the looks on my resume because of it. The only thing really I didn't like from my college is the outdated content. Also in South Jersey, it suffers from the overall community that the schools located represent. What I mean is that the jobs around the area for instance in IT, are extremely scarce. That's why they have to extend to the Upper Philadelphia area and you still have to compete versus Penn State, Villanova, Drexel, UPenn, etc. And this is a new thing IMO, because when I graduated 4 years ago, they didn't reach out to Philly like that.

Lynda.com wasn't that big when I was going to college, so I didn't pick on to that. When I graduated, I found Udacity and took the Computer Programming 101 and really liked this self paced approach. Once I discovered Udemy, it was a wrap. Coursera, Khan Academy and edX came later and now it has grown into a big deal and it even makes its information accessible to younger kids.

 

[EmM HoLLa.]

Starting a Data Analytics Master's program next month. I'll be studying SQL (Structured Query Language) R programming, Python, Tableau, Hadoop, Predixion, and SAS.



I have some innovative ideas I want to implement with this skillset. I participate in "professional" calisthenics (progressive body-weight movements from pushups, situps, pullups & dips) to planks, muscleups, full planche, etc.

I'm going to develop an application for "noobs" through data analysis based upon their diet, body type (endo, meso, ecto) to be able to perform these body-weight exercises. The future (especially with the popularity of social media) of data manipulation, and data visualization is exponential.

I post primarily on this platform for statistical research purposes. It's really interesting to see what post gets the most reaction--based upon the litany of "reaction" tools available.

My preliminary reports indicate:

- Sarcastic parsimonious posts tend to generate lots of lol reactions

- Long thought out personal posts about socio-cultural issues tend to generate Ether and Goats

- GIFS/Memes tend to generate lol & ether reactions

- A post that tends to deviate from the socio-political mean, tends to generate wacks & feelings

After I get to a certain number of posts--to increase my sample size, I'll be able to ascertain the implications of what the data reveals so posters can maximize visualization of their posts by using revamped graphic highlighting techniques based on the data.

I work in the space.. I got an MIS/Finance Degree in Undergrad and then recently got my MBA.. The education is good.. But experience is key.. Work for free if you have to.. But get some relevant work experience and references that can vouch for you.. You can get at least 50-60k to start with that degree and thats pretty much on the low end.. BUT experience is key..

 

[EmM HoLLa.]

Aiight Fellas.. Quick update.. I'm relocating back to NYC.. If you all recall I landed a management role back in April just before getting my MBA. The job was/is cool. But I decided I've had enough of the DC area so I started looking for gigs in NYC.

Buss the fly shit though.. I was able to negotiate a salary with the NY company that is about 60% higher than what I was making at the beginning of year before I landed the first management role. AND. I am now contracting about 20 hours a week with my current job. Got a 1099 situation. It's 20 hours but I don't think I will be putting that much time in. Lead a call here and there and write a script here and there and thats it. I had been leading a project and they'd like to have some continuity which works for me and them.

I say all that to say this.. It's definitely a process. For a long time although I was making more than most I felt underpaid. My next move is to transition from working to getting my consulting company going full-time. As of today I already have one client. My network and work experience is going to come in handy. I gained those things while being underpaid for but the experience and the network is priceless..

Keep 10 toes down and keep grinding fellas.. As big as IT is there still is a shortage of qualified professionals. Get your experience up and GET P-A-I-D.. And diversify.. Make that money backflip in other areas and secure your future...

GOOD SHIT FAM! keep it up

You already know my guy! If we keep it up we will be running whole IT departments sooner than later.. Then we can really make some moves..

In order for us to plug people they have to get qualified.. So keep hustling everybody..

 

[traestar]

Starting a Data Analytics Master's program next month. I'll be studying SQL (Structured Query Language) R programming, Python, Tableau, Hadoop, Predixion, and SAS.



I have some innovative ideas I want to implement with this skillset. I participate in "professional" calisthenics (progressive body-weight movements from pushups, situps, pullups & dips) to planks, muscleups, full planche, etc.

I'm going to develop an application for "noobs" through data analysis based upon their diet, body type (endo, meso, ecto) to be able to perform these body-weight exercises. The future (especially with the popularity of social media) of data manipulation, and data visualization is exponential.

I post primarily on this platform for statistical research purposes. It's really interesting to see what post gets the most reaction--based upon the litany of "reaction" tools available.

My preliminary reports indicate:

- Sarcastic parsimonious posts tend to generate lots of lol reactions

- Long thought out personal posts about socio-cultural issues tend to generate Ether and Goats

- GIFS/Memes tend to generate lol & ether reactions

- A post that tends to deviate from the socio-political mean, tends to generate wacks & feelings

After I get to a certain number of posts--to increase my sample size, I'll be able to ascertain the implications of what the data reveals so posters can maximize visualization of their posts by using revamped graphic highlighting techniques based on the data.

I work in the space.. I got an MIS/Finance Degree in Undergrad and then recently got my MBA.. The education is good.. But experience is key.. Work for free if you have to.. But get some relevant work experience and references that can vouch for you.. You can get at least 50-60k to start with that degree and thats pretty much on the low end.. BUT experience is key..

I wish I could say the same, that's what I went after and nobody was looking my way.

 

[the dukester]

I know a female who works in Human Resources at an IT firm. She told me they have sophisticated software that automatically rejects any resume that doesn't hit any of the "required descriptions" in the job description. She went on to say that she only physically looks at a resume when the software selects it. Mind you they get roughly 20-30 resumes a day.

Another layer used to weed out potential applicants out is the psychological assessment. This is used as a personality litmus test, too determine the ethnic background of a candidate (if the the name doesn't give it away, ie. Tyrone, Laquanda.) She told me that they do this to maintain "workplace homogeneity" to increase worker camaraderie, and productivity.

Additionally, the final layer is the test that's given for IT candidates. This I'm cool with it because either you can perform the tasks or not. Kinda like the Math portion on the SAT's, wherein no cultural bias can be inserted because Math is universal.

I've always heard that you should revise your resume to fit the keywords in the job description, but I didn't realize the machine sophistication was on this level. That's why I think it's important to "degree up", rather "cert up." In my view, the degree hits the required keywords that prompt the software to pull your resume, and the certifications/experience gets you hired.

Thoughts?

 

[Thereal_ba]

I know a female who works in Human Resources at an IT firm. She told me they have sophisticated software that automatically rejects any resume that doesn't hit any of the "required descriptions" in the job description. She went on to say that she only physically looks at a resume when the software selects it. Mind you they get roughly 20-30 resumes a day.

Another layer used to weed out potential applicants out is the psychological assessment. This is used as a personality litmus test, too determine the ethnic background of a candidate (if the the name doesn't give it away, ie. Tyrone, Laquanda.) She told me that they do this to maintain "workplace homogeneity" to increase worker camaraderie, and productivity.

Additionally, the final layer is the test that's given for IT candidates. This I'm cool with it because either you can perform the tasks or not. Kinda like the Math portion on the SAT's, wherein no cultural bias can be inserted because Math is universal.

I've always heard that you should revise your resume to fit the keywords in the job description, but I didn't realize the machine sophistication was on this level. That's why I think it's important to "degree up", rather "cert up." In my view, the degree hits the required keywords that prompt the software to pull your resume, and the certifications/experience gets you hired.

Thoughts?

Sounds about right on all fronts in this post.

 

[leftcoastkev]

I know a female who works in Human Resources at an IT firm. She told me they have sophisticated software that automatically rejects any resume that doesn't hit any of the "required descriptions" in the job description. She went on to say that she only physically looks at a resume when the software selects it. Mind you they get roughly 20-30 resumes a day.

Another layer used to weed out potential applicants out is the psychological assessment. This is used as a personality litmus test, too determine the ethnic background of a candidate (if the the name doesn't give it away, ie. Tyrone, Laquanda.) She told me that they do this to maintain "workplace homogeneity" to increase worker camaraderie, and productivity.

Additionally, the final layer is the test that's given for IT candidates. This I'm cool with it because either you can perform the tasks or not. Kinda like the Math portion on the SAT's, wherein no cultural bias can be inserted because Math is universal.

I've always heard that you should revise your resume to fit the keywords in the job description, but I didn't realize the machine sophistication was on this level. That's why I think it's important to "degree up", rather "cert up." In my view, the degree hits the required keywords that prompt the software to pull your resume, and the certifications/experience gets you hired.

Thoughts?

For the most part i moved around based on who I know/knew. Reputation is everything. Interviews are formalities.

As far as resumes to catch attention...once u have certain certs, put them on your resume..you'll get "selected". More easily by consulting/contracting firms....the rest is walking the talk.

 

[Bcotton5]

Yea my plan is to finish this 2 year IT degree and then cert up and get CCNP after CCNA

Idk if im going after the bachelors unless I can get a job thatll help pay for it.

Most of the job postings I see call for bach in comp science but I always hear conflicting stories if its worth it or not

 

[EmM HoLLa.]

I know a female who works in Human Resources at an IT firm. She told me they have sophisticated software that automatically rejects any resume that doesn't hit any of the "required descriptions" in the job description. She went on to say that she only physically looks at a resume when the software selects it. Mind you they get roughly 20-30 resumes a day.

Another layer used to weed out potential applicants out is the psychological assessment. This is used as a personality litmus test, too determine the ethnic background of a candidate (if the the name doesn't give it away, ie. Tyrone, Laquanda.) She told me that they do this to maintain "workplace homogeneity" to increase worker camaraderie, and productivity.

Additionally, the final layer is the test that's given for IT candidates. This I'm cool with it because either you can perform the tasks or not. Kinda like the Math portion on the SAT's, wherein no cultural bias can be inserted because Math is universal.

I've always heard that you should revise your resume to fit the keywords in the job description, but I didn't realize the machine sophistication was on this level. That's why I think it's important to "degree up", rather "cert up." In my view, the degree hits the required keywords that prompt the software to pull your resume, and the certifications/experience gets you hired.

Thoughts?

All facts.. Which is why I mentioned experience is key.. If you have the requisite experience.. Being succinct but tat the same time detailed about prior experience will by default hit all the keywords.. Mention software used to complete tasks etc.. Is enough to get you through the software.

I have never got a job using the buddy system. Every single corporate gig I got.. I went on the popular job site of the time.. Whether it be Monster, Hotjobs, CareerBuilder, and more recently LinkedIn and Indeed.. I applied with my resume and they hit me back and I knocked the interview out..

 

[EmM HoLLa.]

Yea my plan is to finish this 2 year IT degree and then cert up and get CCNP after CCNA

Idk if im going after the bachelors unless I can get a job thatll help pay for it.

Most of the job postings I see call for bach in comp science but I always hear conflicting stories if its worth it or not

I say if yo u can get hired without it and get a company to pay for it.. Take it..

One thing people don't tell you is that you actually learn things while in school as obvious as that may sound... Those things you learn will come out in conversations with colleagues. Especially when dealing with folks on the business side. If you can get in the good graces of those on the business side.. Particular the finance folks.. You pretty much guarantee yourself a spot in the company for the long haul..

I've had many conversations with folks about things I've learned in school. And it wasnt like i had to ask and get explanations we would just talk and I'd be able to follow because I got that knowledge in the classroom. It's a comforting thing for those that aren't as technically saavy as we all are. To be able to have a normal conversation with the technical side of the house about business.

 

[King Erauno]

As I mentioned above, I have to get out of this state. Which state do you guys suggest I start checking out that has a better IT career presence. I'm more in the web development area with some Data Analysis experience.

go to atlanta. or Raleigh as a last resort

 

[traestar]

As I mentioned above, I have to get out of this state. Which state do you guys suggest I start checking out that has a better IT career presence. I'm more in the web development area with some Data Analysis experience.

go to atlanta. or Raleigh as a last resort

Appreciate it man, thanks!

Many people have told me to move to ATL too.

 

[EmM HoLLa.]

As I mentioned above, I have to get out of this state. Which state do you guys suggest I start checking out that has a better IT career presence. I'm more in the web development area with some Data Analysis experience.

go to atlanta. or Raleigh as a last resort

Appreciate it man, thanks!

Many people have told me to move to ATL too.

I'd say go wherever you have family or where you know someone.. If you know someone in DC ask to use their address to apply for jobs.. Same with NY, Miami, San Franscisco etc.. Most jobs do not want to pay for relocation. So you get eliminated if you do no have a local address from the rip..

If you're gonna be in analytics any big city has jobs.. Chicago, Atlanta, Miami, NY, DC, Houston, etc. If you know people in those areas use their address and make different linkedin and indeed profiles for each address and apply apply..

Be ready with some money to travel for interviews.. And you'll land something quick. Thats exactly how I landed my NY role.. Used my moms address and went from there. Had I used my DMV address I wouldn't have got a look..

 

[traestar]

As I mentioned above, I have to get out of this state. Which state do you guys suggest I start checking out that has a better IT career presence. I'm more in the web development area with some Data Analysis experience.

go to atlanta. or Raleigh as a last resort

Appreciate it man, thanks!

Many people have told me to move to ATL too.

I'd say go wherever you have family or where you know someone.. If you know someone in DC ask to use their address to apply for jobs.. Same with NY, Miami, San Franscisco etc.. Most jobs do not want to pay for relocation. So you get eliminated if you do no have a local address from the rip..

If you're gonna be in analytics any big city has jobs.. Chicago, Atlanta, Miami, NY, DC, Houston, etc. If you know people in those areas use their address and make different linkedin and indeed profiles for each address and apply apply..

Be ready with some money to travel for interviews.. And you'll land something quick. Thats exactly how I landed my NY role.. Used my moms address and went from there. Had I used my DMV address I wouldn't have got a look..

Yea, thats one of my major problems. Just to even be considered in any of these areas, they wanted people to live around the area. Even in Philly, they are real funny style and I'm only under a hour away and commuted. My thing is relocation and you are right on the money that these jobs do not want to pay for relocation.

 

[EmM HoLLa.]

As I mentioned above, I have to get out of this state. Which state do you guys suggest I start checking out that has a better IT career presence. I'm more in the web development area with some Data Analysis experience.

go to atlanta. or Raleigh as a last resort

Appreciate it man, thanks!

Many people have told me to move to ATL too.

I'd say go wherever you have family or where you know someone.. If you know someone in DC ask to use their address to apply for jobs.. Same with NY, Miami, San Franscisco etc.. Most jobs do not want to pay for relocation. So you get eliminated if you do no have a local address from the rip..

If you're gonna be in analytics any big city has jobs.. Chicago, Atlanta, Miami, NY, DC, Houston, etc. If you know people in those areas use their address and make different linkedin and indeed profiles for each address and apply apply..

Be ready with some money to travel for interviews.. And you'll land something quick. Thats exactly how I landed my NY role.. Used my moms address and went from there. Had I used my DMV address I wouldn't have got a look..

Yea, thats one of my major problems. Just to even be considered in any of these areas, they wanted people to live around the area. Even in Philly, they are real funny style and I'm only under a hour away and commuted. My thing is relocation and you are right on the money that these jobs do not want to pay for relocation.

Yeah man forget about relocation if you aren't in upper management.. I'm in middle management and they aint wanna pay for it.. Luckily I had a stash so I just did what I had to do.. You can also get a deduction on your taxes for moving so it isn't that bad. It is just putting up the money up front which is painful.

Which is why I mentioned only apply to places where you know someone.. If they'll let you slug it on their couch until you get your first check or two that'll get you in the game. That's how I was able to move to DC. Stayed at my cousins crib for about a month. Once I got a couple of checks I was outta there. It isn't ideal but it's worth it. Cuz you'll have a job in your field effectively starting your career.. And you'll be in a better place economically.

Good luck...

 

[Los216]

Last day in the Marine Corps was January 2nd. Cisco class starts on January 19th. Let's get it.