Ah… Life. How it gets in the way of things sometimes. I’m looking forward to some slowing down of things as we get into June and July, which gives me some time to concentrate on finishing up with updating my MCSE.
Microsoft has been busy updating certifications in the last year, so now you’ll find options for the MTA (Technology Associate), MCSA (Solutions Associate) and the MCSE (Solutions Expert). I’m working toward the Server Infrastructure MCSE, so I still have exams 70-413 and 70-414 to go.
For preparation, I’ve got a copy of the 70-413 Exam Ref book, but I also like to mix up my studying materials with content from MVA (Microsoft Virtual Academy) and TechNet documentation to fill in areas where I might need some extra clarification. What’s nice about the Virtual Academy is that you can add the courses to your profile and then work through them at your own pace. Finally, I look for sessions from TechEd and other conferences that I’m might have attended that line up with test concepts.
If there is good in-person training in my area, I look for that as well. If you are in the SF area (or can get there easily, don’t miss out on the chance to attend TechDays, organized by PacITPros. This low-cost, two day event has a line up of great speakers and there is sure to be a topic for everyone. Register at www.techdays.org.
Today, I reviewed the booklet of sessions from TechEd for Monday (baby steps!) and here is what is on my short list to watch this week (Warning: these might completely unrelated to my exam studying):
- Windows PowerShell Unplugged with Jeffery Snover (DCIM-B318)
- Microsoft Azure Storage (DCIM-B384)
- Hybrid Identity: Extending Active Directory to the Cloud (PCIT-B313)
Registration page: http://www.microsoftvirtualacademy.com/liveevents/windows-8-1-update-for-enterprise-jump-start
Windows 8.1 Update for Enterprise Jump Start
TECHBUNNY 