switch my focus

"Collin" <junli68@yahoo.com> wrote:
>
>Hi guys,
>
>I am in a pretty tough situation. I am a MCSE+Internet and doing network
>and hardware related job for several years. But now I try to switch to a
>java developer because I am interested in this tool very much. I had some
>developing experience (5 years ago on FoxPro) and just got Jave certification.
>But I found it's very hard to get a job because of no "hand-on" java experience.
>Can someboday give me some advice?
>
>Thanks in advance.
>
>Collin

Collin,

I assume you are currently employed in some capacity? I would suggest you
write a few simple applications in Java for your current job, and at least
one "semi-serious" application. Maybe a problem tracker with a web-based
interface. In any event, right now the Java market is looking strongest
in the server-side. I'd recommend you look at writing a server-side Java
component designed to dynamically create web pages from database content.
Use a database, preferably Oracle (you should be able to download Oracle
personal edition free for test/development use).

With a real application written for your current company using Oracle and
Java you should have no problem getting an entry-level position in a couple
months. At the point you have finished your "real-world" application you
will need to modify your resume to emphazise your Java expertise and downplay
your other experience. I'd be glad to look it over at that point and make
suggestions to maximize your success. And when the resume is ready, you
can submit your resume to DICE, HEADHUNTER.NET, and MONSTER and should get
a lot of response.

Matthew Cromer
matthew@sdaconsulting.com