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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.
  • Starting My CAPM Certification Journey

    Starting My CAPM Certification Journey

    With my graduation date set and CompTIA A+ Core 1 in progress, I’m also turning my attention to the CAPM® – Certified Associate in Project Management.

    Why CAPM? Because project management plays a huge role in IT, and I want to be ready to lead, communicate, and contribute on a higher level.

    This certification is all about understanding the principles, terminology, and structure of project management—and it’s ideal for entry-level professionals like me who are ready to stand out.

    How I’m Preparing for the CAPM:

    • 📘 Reviewing the PMBOK® Guide – 7th Edition
    • 🧠 Watching free and paid video courses for extra clarity
    • 📝 Taking practice tests to check my understanding
    • 📅 Building a weekly study schedule alongside my A+ prep

    It’s a lot to balance, but the payoff is worth it. The CAPM shows employers that I’m serious about managing people, time, and scope—three things that matter in every tech role.

    I’ve learned through this journey that technical knowledge and project structure go hand in hand. This certification is one more step toward becoming the well-rounded IT professional I aim to be.

    Let’s go! 💼💡

    “The future depends on what you do today.”
    — Mahatma Gandhi

  • Balance Isn’t Optional—It’s Essential

    Balance Isn’t Optional—It’s Essential

    When you’re working toward a big goal—graduating, earning certifications, starting a new career—it’s easy to fall into the trap of nonstop hustle.

    But I’ve learned (sometimes the hard way) that balance isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity.

    Pushing too hard for too long only leads to burnout. And burnout makes everything harder: thinking clearly, staying motivated, and being present in the process.

    So lately, I’ve been learning to give myself permission to rest. Not because I’m lazy. But because I’m human.

    My Current Balance Routine:

    • 🧠 Study smart, not nonstop – Short focused sessions over long, draining marathons
    • 🧶 Creative breaks – Crochet or puzzles help reset my mind
    • ☕ Mini digital detoxes – Step away from screens to breathe and refocus
    • 📓 Daily reflection – Journaling or blogging helps process progress and stress

    These small habits help me stay grounded while continuing to grow. They remind me that success isn’t just about doing more—it’s about doing what matters well.

    If you’re in the middle of your own grind, I see you. Just don’t forget to take care of yourself too.

    Because your well-being is part of your success.

    “You can’t pour from an empty cup. Take care of yourself first.”
    — Unknown

  • Life Advice from My Great-Grandmother: Keep Your Mind Active

    Life Advice from My Great-Grandmother: Keep Your Mind Active

    One of the best lessons I ever learned came from my great-grandmother. She used to say:

    “Always be doing something. Even if you’re just sitting in front of the TV, keep your mind active.”

    That simple advice has stuck with me throughout my life—and it’s become part of the way I approach everything, especially now as I finish school, study for certifications, and work toward a new career.

    Whether I’m studying for the CompTIA A+ exam or waiting for an interview callback, I try to fill my downtime with things that keep my brain engaged. Not because I have to—but because it helps me stay sharp, relaxed, and focused.

    My Favorite Ways to Stay Mentally Active:

    • 🧩 Word searches – calming and great for focus
    • 🔢 Sudoku puzzles – keep my problem-solving skills sharp
    • 🧶 Crochet – lets my hands work while my mind unwinds

    These quiet activities have become part of my personal rhythm. They remind me that growth doesn’t only happen in classrooms or job interviews—it happens in those small moments where we choose to be present and purposeful.

    So here’s to keeping the mind active, one stitch or puzzle at a time. Thanks, Grandma.

    “The mind is like a muscle—the more you use it, the stronger it gets.”
    — Anonymous

  • What Keeps Me Moving Forward

    What Keeps Me Moving Forward

    There are days when this journey feels long. When the to-do list is endless. When certification content is overwhelming, applications feel repetitive, and imposter syndrome sneaks in.

    But I keep going.

    Because I remember why I started.

    I started this path to change my life. To prove to myself that I could break into a field I once thought was out of reach. To pursue something I’ve always been passionate about—technology, learning, and making a difference.

    These Are the Things That Keep Me Moving:

    • 🎯 My Goals – I’m working toward a real future in IT and project management.
    • 💡 Curiosity – There’s always more to discover, and that excites me.
    • 💬 Encouragement from others – Every kind word fuels my momentum.
    • 🔄 Progress, even small steps – Every bit of growth counts.
    • 🔥 The belief that I can—and will—do this.

    There’s power in persistence. Every challenge I face teaches me something. Every rough day still moves me forward.

    And the more I keep going, the more I realize:
    I’m not the same person who started this journey. I’m stronger now.

    And I’m not done yet.

    “It does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop.”
    — Confucius

  • Soft Skills Matter More Than You Think in Tech

    Soft Skills Matter More Than You Think in Tech

    When people think of IT, they often picture complex systems, hardware setups, or lines of code. And while those are all part of the job, there’s another set of skills that’s just as critical—soft skills.

    I’ve learned that being great at IT isn’t just about what you know—it’s about how you work with people. Whether it’s helping a frustrated user, collaborating with a team, or explaining something technical in a simple way, your people skills matter.

    The Soft Skills I’m Honing Every Day:

    • 💬 Clear Communication – Explaining issues without jargon builds trust.
    • 🤝 Teamwork – IT often requires working across departments and personalities.
    • 🧘 Patience – Not everyone speaks tech. Staying calm goes a long way.
    • 🧠 Adaptability – Things break. Plans change. The best techs adjust fast.
    • 🎯 Problem Solving with Empathy – Fix the issue and ease the stress.

    These skills are what turn knowledge into leadership. They help you stand out in interviews, thrive on teams, and grow into roles with more responsibility.

    So while I’m proud of everything I’ve learned technically, I’m just as proud of how much I’ve grown as a communicator, teammate, and leader-in-progress.

    “Technical skills may get you the job, but soft skills will help you keep it—and thrive.”
    — Anonymous

  • From Learning to Doing: It’s Time to Put Knowledge to Work

    From Learning to Doing: It’s Time to Put Knowledge to Work

    I’ve spent the last few years learning everything I could—systems, hardware, troubleshooting, project frameworks, and more.

    Now, it’s time to put that knowledge into action.

    As I approach the end of my degree, I can feel the shift happening. It’s no longer just about passing assignments or exams. It’s about solving problems, collaborating on real teams, and making a difference with what I know.

    I’m not just a student anymore. I’m an IT professional in motion.

    Here’s What I’m Focusing On Now:

    • 💻 Building hands-on experience through personal projects and my new custom PC
    • 📄 Refining my resume to showcase both academic and practical skills
    • 🎯 Studying for CompTIA A+ to reinforce and validate what I’ve learned
    • 💬 Practicing communication—because great IT pros know how to explain, not just fix

    There’s still so much to learn, but I finally feel ready to start doing. Every troubleshooting session, every application sent, and every study block is helping me take that next step.

    This is where the real adventure begins.

    “Knowledge is of no value unless you put it into practice.”
    — Anton Chekhov

  • It’s Not Just a Job—It’s a Purpose

    It’s Not Just a Job—It’s a Purpose

    The deeper I get into this journey—graduation, certifications, job applications—the more I realize something powerful:

    I’m not just looking for a job. I’m building a purpose.

    Yes, I want to work in IT. Yes, I want a role that challenges and supports my growth. But more than that, I want to make a difference—to bring value, solve problems, and help people through technology.

    Every help desk ticket, every system fixed, every project coordinated—that’s a chance to make someone’s life easier. That’s a win.

    Here’s what purpose looks like to me:

    • 💡 Using what I’ve learned to help others succeed
    • 🔧 Solving real-world problems with practical skills
    • 🌍 Working in tech with empathy and intention
    • 🚀 Staying curious, staying motivated, and staying human in a digital world

    Whether it’s through certifications, continued learning, or my first big role, I want to keep that sense of purpose at the center of everything I do.

    This field isn’t just about tools and code—it’s about people. And that’s what keeps me inspired every day.

    “The meaning of life is to find your gift. The purpose of life is to give it away.”
    — Pablo Picasso

  • Building a Career, One Step at a Time

    Building a Career, One Step at a Time

    With graduation nearly behind me and certification prep in full swing, I’ve been thinking a lot about the future—not just the kind of job I want, but the kind of career I want to build.

    It’s easy to get caught up in the rush: apply everywhere, pass every test, move fast. But I’m learning that true growth doesn’t happen all at once. It happens step by step.

    Right now, my steps include:

    • 🧠 Studying for CompTIA A+ Core 1
    • 💼 Applying to roles in IT and project support
    • 🎯 Laying the groundwork for CAPM certification
    • 📓 Reflecting on everything I’ve learned so far

    I’m not rushing the process. I’m embracing it. Every step—every job post, every mock exam, every networking moment—gets me closer to where I want to be.

    My goal isn’t just to get hired.

    It’s to build something meaningful.
    A career that grows with me. A career where I can make an impact. A career where I’m always learning, always helping, and always moving forward.

    This journey has already changed my life. I can’t wait to see what’s next.

    “Don’t be pushed around by the fears in your mind. Be led by the dreams in your heart.”
    — Roy T. Bennett

  • 60 Posts In: What I’ve Learned on This Journey

    Sixty posts.

    That number represents a lot more than just blog entries—it’s a record of my growth, my challenges, and my commitment to becoming the best version of myself in the IT world.

    When I started this blog, I was a student chasing a dream. Now, I’m standing at the edge of graduation, preparing for certifications, and actively applying for roles in my new field.

    So today, I’m pausing to reflect on what 60 posts have taught me—not just about IT, but about myself.

    10 Things I’ve Learned After 60 Posts:

    1. 🎓 It’s never too late to start over
    2. 💻 Confidence grows with action, not perfection
    3. 📚 Every day is a chance to learn something new
    4. 🧠 Failure is part of growth—use it, don’t fear it
    5. 💬 Sharing your journey inspires others and keeps you honest
    6. 🛠️ Hands-on experience is the best teacher
    7. 📈 Progress doesn’t always look like success—but it adds up
    8. 🧩 There’s a place in tech for everyone—especially the curious
    9. ✉️ Each application and interview is a step forward
    10. 🌱 Who I am now is stronger, wiser, and more capable than when I started

    I’m proud of these 60 posts. And I’m even more excited for what comes next.

    Here’s to the next chapter—new certifications, new roles, and new milestones. Thank you for following the journey so far. Let’s keep building.

    “Success is a journey, not a destination. The doing is often more important than the outcome.”
    — Arthur Ashe

  • From Self-Doubt to Self-Belief

    From Self-Doubt to Self-Belief

    When I first started this journey, I wasn’t sure I belonged in IT.

    I wondered if I was “smart enough,” “technical enough,” or “young enough” to enter a fast-paced, ever-changing industry. But I decided to try anyway.

    Now, with my graduation date set, certifications in progress, and applications going out—I’m seeing the results of that decision.

    Am I a tech expert yet? No.
    But I’m someone who kept learning, stayed curious, and didn’t give up.

    What I’ve Gained Since Starting:

    • 💡 Knowledge I once thought was out of reach
    • 🧠 Confidence from building and troubleshooting real systems
    • 🛠️ Hands-on experience through projects and coursework
    • 🌱 The mindset to keep learning, even after school ends

    Every step forward replaced a little more fear with confidence. And now I know:
    You don’t have to know it all—you just have to be willing to start.

    To anyone else who feels unsure, I promise: you’re more capable than you think.

    “Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.”
    — Arthur Ashe