I am a computer networking student and i’m in an extremely lucky position next semester. I only have to work weekends and complete a few elective courses. I basically have four months to study and attain the CCNA.
Unfortunately, I think that employers seeking interns might see my certification as me compensating for my grades (2.6 gpa with a bunch of withdrawn courses). Is this a well founded fear?
Thanks. I also have a couple months repairing laptops as experience but I’m thinking of leaving that out.
Which do you think looks better - a 2.6 GPA, or a 2.6 GPA and having earned a CCNA?
Some employees just flag keywords and having CCNA will get you a few hits for that reason alone. It also gives you a foot in the door to address your interests and to offer any explanation you may want to give for your grades. Maybe you’ve had family or life difficulties or you’ve struggled with physical or mental illness. You can take the chance in an interview to explain how you had some difficulty but then you chose to dedicate the last several months to study and earn the CCNA. I think that will go a good way towards demonstrating to an employer that you are motivated and willing to work.