People in IT or tech fields

[Hot Dog Of Doom]

I'am currently in college and thinking about going into IT. For one of my classes i need to interview someone who is currently employed in an IT or technology related field. To my chagrin I don't know anybody in real life who works in IT, so I consult the all knowing internets. The interview wouldn't last more than 30 minutes and could be conducted on the forums, via PM, phone, email or whatever is most convenient for you. Any help with this would be much appreciated!

 

[Cyc]

I'd suggest PM or anonymous e-mail. Soliciting personal info. on a board such as this can be a touchy matter.

 

[hobhead]

online versions of all the major daily newspapers have an internet presence . there is always a computer wonk writing columns and they all have an internet address at the bottom of their byline .
it seems to me that a reporter would be glad to respond to you or steer you in the right direction.

 

[blauwelichten]

Why are you going into IT?
Its hard at the start, you don't earn much money, your a cost to the business and business types tend to treat you like shit
There's a lot to learn, but its not impossible.
The right attitude, willingness to learn and being a quick thinker, a quick learner are all crucial.
Ability is not so relevant, its not rocket science, it can be learnt.

 

[blauwelichten]

You can interview me if you like.

 

[dimetaltrypafiend]

60k a year starting after 2 years of school is earning money in my books.

 

[jpgrdnr]

Look at job postings, see what is interesting, focus on that, try to get experience (working for free, at your college).

Ie 5 yrs exp Oracle DBA with strong experience in Crystal Reports. Focus on one particular field in IT and ignore everything else. Do the coursework but focus on one thing.

Also a comp sci degree is more and more becoming the norm for entry level. Also IT works the other way where if u have 5+ exp in something they will ignore requirements/certs.

 

[rant*N*rave]

I work for a major software/IT company doing both technical and managerial work. Let me know if you still need someone.

 

[springheels]

Might be an idea to contact some IT companies in your area ,, I'm sure they will spare you 30 minutes to complete your interview with someone ,, check out some of the chatrooms , yahoo has a good programming room so you could interview someone using a chat client ,, good luck