I am a recent graduate of information technology with a degree in data communications. I've been advised to select a path in networking, systems, database or programming. My question is, "How do I know what the correct path is in the field of IT? Can you be a system administrator and network administrator at the same time?"

    Requires Free Membership to View

    Login

Choosing your path is like choosing a major in college. Essentially you have an idea of what you like and what you want to do and pursue it. Often, you realize that you may not like your initial choice and switch to another. In other words, pursue the field that appeals to you and your occupational and financial goals.

To answer your second question, the answer is unequivocally yes. This is true more so today than ever since the lines between networks and systems are completely blurred. Both fields are essentially converged these days since both are ultimately co-dependent of each other. Thus, pursuing both is ultimately advantageous because you are exposing yourself to both of these fields and securing the vast amount of positions that entail system and networking knowledge.

This was first published in September 2006

Join the conversationComment

Share
Comments

    Results

    Contribute to the conversation

    All fields are required. Comments will appear at the bottom of the article.
    Back to top