Moving into a entire new career can be daunting enough. But add the stress of having to learn a new language, and a slew of new cultural mores, and it's likely near impossible to succeed.
But that's exactly how Nora Lopez transitioned into an IT professional during these past few years. The Mexico native moved to the US nine years ago and her first real exposure to the field of technology came through an apprenticeship as a computer lab technician.
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Through her involvement in setting up desktops for a computer training school, Lopez gained an in-depth knowledge of computer hardware and software and developed a thorough understanding of the Office suite and Microsoft Server platform.
She decided to increase her knowledge and expertise by adding networking to her portfolio of IT skills and enrolled in Cisco Certified Network Associate classes through the Cisco Networking Academy' Program at Oxnard College in Oxnard, California.
She says she took the technical career route as she believed the hands-on skills learned could help bridge some of the language difficulties she was experiencing. She was aware that technology concepts can be complex; however, she knew that meeting these new challenges would pave her path to success.
Lopez learned about the Networking Academy program through her college friends.
"I really think the classes helped me understand many things about information technology besides networking, like project management and teamwork. And the classes helped me continue toward my formal degree program," says the 25-year-old.
She has earned an associate of arts, associate of science, and bachelor's of science degrees in information system security.
Currently, Lopez works for Power-One as a PC support technician.
"The skills I gained completing the Cisco curriculum, along with working for the Oxnard College department, gave me the ability to excel at my job and will continue to help me in the future. I believe the Cisco Networking Academy Program has provided the foundation and the opportunity to make an exciting and successful technical career a reality."
Lopez's future career goal is to become a network administrator.
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