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Hi! I’m Jamie Woodman, an Information Technology student at Capella University with a growing passion for artificial intelligence and lifelong learning. I hold a Google IT Support Certificate and am currently preparing for the CompTIA A+ certification. I’ve always been fascinated by technology—even when I didn’t believe I was “tech-savvy” enough to belong in the field. Since beginning my academic journey, I’ve discovered just how much I can learn—and how much I enjoy it. I was recently honored to be accepted into the National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS), which has inspired me to keep developing both as a leader and a learner. This blog is where I share my experiences as a student, my thoughts on technology, and helpful resources for others navigating a similar path. Whether you’re breaking into IT, exploring AI, or just looking for some inspiration, I’m glad you’re here.
  • Preparing for Day One in IT

    Preparing for Day One in IT

    With my new role starting soon, I’ve been doing everything I can to make sure I’m ready to hit the ground running.
    Even though the company is providing solid training, I want to show up feeling prepared, focused, and confident.

    Here’s How I’m Getting Ready:

    🧠 Reviewing A+ material – Just brushing up on hardware, OS, and troubleshooting basics
    📚 Watching refresher videos – Especially short, focused content from Professor Messer and CBT Nuggets
    🛠️ Practicing hands-on skills – Running through CLI commands, checking system logs, and working in Linux
    📝 Taking notes – I’ve started a fresh notebook for this new chapter to track what I learn on the job

    I know I won’t know everything right away—and that’s okay.
    What matters is the mindset: stay curious, stay humble, and keep learning.

    I’m excited (and a little nervous), but mostly, I feel ready.
    And that’s a great place to be.

    “Success is where preparation and opportunity meet.”
    — Bobby Unser

  • Looking Back, Moving Forward

    Looking Back, Moving Forward

    With a new job on the horizon, I’ve been reflecting on how far I’ve come—and how much my mindset has shifted along the way.

    When I first started pursuing a career in IT, I questioned everything.
    Was I too late?
    Was I smart enough?
    Could I really do this?

    But little by little—through study, setbacks, certifications, interviews, and long nights—I found my confidence.
    Not because everything went perfectly.
    But because I kept going anyway.

    What’s Changed?

    🧠 I’ve learned to trust the process
    💬 I’ve learned that asking questions is a strength, not a weakness
    📚 I’ve learned that learning never ends in tech
    💪 I’ve learned that I’m capable—even when it’s hard

    The journey isn’t over. I’m still learning. I’m still growing.
    But I’m starting this next chapter with a stronger belief in myself—and that makes all the difference.

    “You don’t have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step.”
    — Martin Luther King Jr.

  • The Job Starts Soon – and I Already Feel Supported

    The Job Starts Soon – and I Already Feel Supported

    I haven’t even started my new IT role yet—my official start date is still about two weeks away—but already, I’m feeling something I hadn’t felt in a while: supported.

    From the initial conversations to the onboarding communication and expectations, this new team has already shown me that I’m not just being “hired”—I’m being welcomed.

    Why That Matters:

    💬 Communication has been clear and professional
    🤝 The people I’ve spoken to have been encouraging and genuine
    📅 The training plan is outlined and structured
    🧠 I already feel like I’ll be given room to grow—not expected to know everything on day one

    After coming from situations where training felt rushed or nonexistent, this is a breath of fresh air.

    I know there will still be challenges—but when you start in an environment where you’re treated like you belong, everything feels more possible.

    “People grow through experience if they meet life honestly and courageously. This is how character is built.”
    — Eleanor Roosevelt

  • I Got the Job! Starting My New IT Role 🎉

    I Got the Job! Starting My New IT Role 🎉

    It’s been a busy couple of weeks—but I’m thrilled to finally share that I’ve landed a new entry-level IT position with a company that offers exactly what I’ve been looking for:

    ✅ Structured training
    ✅ Supportive team environment
    ✅ Opportunities to grow and learn

    After a long search, interviews, setbacks, and a whole lot of studying, it feels amazing to have found a role where I can build my skills with confidence and not feel like I’m guessing my way through everything.

    What Makes This Role Special?

    🧠 I’ll be learning every day—hands-on experience, mentoring, and clear guidance
    📚 The company values growth, and there’s real potential for advancement
    💬 I feel supported already, and I know I’m in the right place to thrive

    This is the kind of environment I’ve been hoping for since I started this journey—and I’m so grateful to finally step into it.

    Whether you’re still searching, still studying, or just getting started—keep going. The right opportunity is out there, and when it comes, you’ll know it was worth the wait.

    “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.”
    — Eleanor Roosevelt

  • Leveling Up: Python and Linux Skills in Progress

    Leveling Up: Python and Linux Skills in Progress

    Growth in IT never stops—and lately, I’ve been focusing on two areas I know will make me a stronger tech professional:

    🧠 Python – for scripting, automation, and long-term flexibility
    🐧 Linux – for systems knowledge, troubleshooting, and real-world experience

    Why These Two?

    🔧 Python and Linux go hand in hand when it comes to automation, security, and system administration.
    🌐 Many servers, networks, and IT environments are Linux-based.
    📜 Learning to script tasks in Python has already helped me understand logic, workflows, and troubleshooting more deeply.
    💪 These tools give me more power and control over how I work and solve problems.

    What I’m Doing Right Now:

    ✅ Continuing my Python learning on Boot.dev
    ✅ Practicing Bash commands and navigation in Ubuntu
    ✅ Setting up and breaking things in a home lab for hands-on practice
    ✅ Writing small scripts to automate tasks
    ✅ Exploring tools like crontab, top, grep, and chmod

    Every new skill I pick up helps me feel more confident and capable in my IT career.
    This is how I grow: one line of code, one terminal command, one challenge at a time.

    “The only way to do great work is to love what you do.”
    — Steve Jobs

  • Keep Learning – Starting My Python Journey

    Keep Learning – Starting My Python Journey

    Just because I’ve finished my degree and earned my CompTIA A+ doesn’t mean I’m done learning—in fact, I’m just getting started.

    Lately, I’ve been diving into Python programming to expand my skills and open up new opportunities in IT.

    Why Python?

    🐍 It’s beginner-friendly but incredibly powerful
    🔁 Automates repetitive IT tasks and workflows
    🧠 Great foundation for cybersecurity, data analysis, and even AI
    🛠️ Helps with scripting in system administration and networking

    What I’m Using to Learn:

    📘 Boot.dev – A structured, hands-on platform for learning Python step by step
    💻 Mini projects and practice scripts
    📺 YouTube tutorials from trusted dev educators
    📓 Keeping a daily coding log to track progress

    Every new line of code is a step toward becoming a more well-rounded IT professional.
    Even 15 minutes a day makes a difference.
    The goal is progress—not perfection.

    “Learning never exhausts the mind.”
    — Leonardo da Vinci

  • My Next Goal: Build Stronger IT Skills, One Certification at a Time

    My Next Goal: Build Stronger IT Skills, One Certification at a Time

    Every step I’ve taken so far—earning my CompTIA A+, finishing my degree, landing my first tech job—has shown me just how much I love working hands-on with systems, hardware, and troubleshooting.

    Now, I’m ready to take that to the next level.

    🛠️ My Next Goal:

    Earn CompTIA Network+ and get more advanced with real-world IT support

    I want to build a stronger foundation in:

    • 🌐 Networking concepts and protocols
    • 🧩 Troubleshooting at the network and infrastructure level
    • ⚙️ Routing, switching, and command-line tools
    • 🔐 Security best practices in network design

    These skills will make me more confident, more capable, and more competitive in future IT support, desktop, and systems technician roles.

    How I’m Getting There:

    ✅ Setting a regular study schedule
    ✅ Watching Network+ videos (Professor Messer + CBT Nuggets)
    ✅ Taking practice exams through MeasureUp
    ✅ Applying what I learn at work and in my home lab
    ✅ Continuing to learn CLI tools like ipconfig, netstat, and tracert

    Every certification I earn opens a new door—and every new skill gives me more confidence in what I can offer. I’m not just building a resume.
    I’m building a career.

    “Don’t watch the clock; do what it does. Keep going.”
    — Sam Levenson

  • Knowing When to Reevaluate Your Goals

    Knowing When to Reevaluate Your Goals

    One of the most important lessons I’ve learned on this journey is that it’s okay to change your mind.

    When I first started in IT, I had a very specific idea of the path I wanted to follow. But the more I’ve learned, the more experience I’ve gained, the more I’ve realized—it’s okay to pause and ask yourself if your goals still fit.

    Sometimes, reevaluating your goals isn’t a setback. It’s a sign of growth.

    Signs It Might Be Time to Reevaluate:

    🔄 Your interests are shifting
    🧭 Your current path isn’t bringing you closer to the life you want
    😓 You’re feeling burnout, confusion, or lack of motivation
    🚧 The job market or industry is showing you different opportunities
    💡 You’ve discovered something new you’re passionate about

    Right now, I’m in the middle of that process.

    I still love tech. I still believe in what I’m building.
    But I’m also realizing that clarity takes time, and that adjusting your direction is a strength—not a failure.

    I’m giving myself permission to explore new goals, new roles, and new paths forward.
    And maybe that’s exactly what I needed.

    “You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.”
    — C.S. Lewis

  • Progress I’m Proud Of

    Progress I’m Proud Of

    Sometimes when you’re focused on everything still left to do, it’s easy to forget how far you’ve already come.

    So today, I’m taking a moment to look back and remind myself that progress isn’t always loud or flashy—but it matters.

    In the Past Year, I’ve:

    ✅ Earned my CompTIA A+ certification
    ✅ Graduated with my Bachelor’s in IT
    ✅ Built my first gaming PC from scratch
    ✅ Landed my first job in tech
    ✅ Started interviewing for state-level roles
    ✅ Gained hands-on experience with real-world systems
    ✅ Continued studying—every single week

    There have been doubts, delays, and detours—but there has also been growth.

    I may not be exactly where I want to be yet…
    But I’m nowhere near where I started.

    And that’s worth celebrating. 🎉

    If you’re on this journey too, take a minute to write your own progress list. You might be surprised how much you’ve already accomplished.

    “A little progress each day adds up to big results.”
    — Satya Nani

  • You Know More Than You Think You Do

    You Know More Than You Think You Do

    It’s easy to feel behind.
    To scroll through job listings or certification forums and think,
    “I’ll never catch up. I don’t know enough yet.”

    But here’s what I’ve learned—you probably know a lot more than you give yourself credit for.

    Stop and Think About It:

    • You’ve fixed things others couldn’t.
    • You’ve learned new tools without being shown.
    • You’ve studied late at night and still showed up in the morning.
    • You’ve built systems, rebuilt confidence, and kept going even when it was hard.

    That’s not just “trying”—that’s growing.

    We live in a field that moves fast. It’s impossible to know everything. But you don’t need to. What matters is that you’re learning, applying, and becoming more confident one day at a time.

    The fact that you’re showing up?
    Still studying? Still building? Still trying?

    That’s the win. And it’s what will carry you all the way to the finish line.

    “Doubt kills more dreams than failure ever will.”
    — Suzy Kassem