IS 480 Journal & Progress Report

 As I reflect on my internship experience, one key area I would strive to improve upon is expanding my technical skill set, particularly in networking and server management. While I have gained a solid foundation in troubleshooting hardware and software issues, I feel that my exposure to more advanced IT tasks, such as network configuration, server administration, and cybersecurity, has been limited. One of my biggest frustrations during this internship was that I wasn’t allowed to work on servers, networking, or administrative tasks, even though my job title suggested that I would be involved in those areas. Higher-ups preferred to keep those responsibilities restricted to employees with more senior job titles, which left me feeling somewhat stagnant in terms of skill development. To improve upon this, I plan to seek out more opportunities to gain hands-on experience with networking equipment, cloud services, and enterprise-level IT infrastructure—whether through personal projects...

During my time in this internship, I have gained valuable hands-on IT experience that has strengthened my technical skills and problem-solving abilities. At the beginning, I was concerned that I wouldn’t know how to handle certain tasks, but I quickly realized that I already had the knowledge needed to complete most of the work that came up. Despite this, one of the biggest challenges was the complete lack of structured training. The hiring process itself was disorganized, with poor communication from the start. I didn’t even know what time I was supposed to begin on my first day. When I asked, they simply told me to show up whenever I thought was right, so I decided to start at 8:00 AM based on my previous job’s schedule. From the beginning, there was little to no guidance. I was given my staff laptop, login credentials (both standard user and admin), and a charger. After logging in, they briefly introduced me to ClassLink, the main program they use, and then sent me to the high schoo...

Two weeks ago, I outlined a professional networking strategy focused on workplace connections, online networking, and industry events. Since then, I have made significant progress in strengthening my professional presence and expanding my network. Workplace Connections: While I continue to engage with colleagues and supervisors, I’ve also started leveraging personal connections outside of work. A former classmates father, who works at Lumen and is in the same jazz band as me has been providing valuable career advice and even shared potential job leads, which could help me transition into a more advanced IT role. Online Networking: I have been actively improving my LinkedIn profile by adding past supervisors and new connections to expand my reach. This has helped me get my name out in the IT field and stay updated on potential job opportunities. Additionally, I’ve started working on updating my portfolio website to better showcase my skills and projects, ensuring that my online presence...

Although I didn’t work this week due to the school’s mid-winter break, I’m reflecting on my previous week to address this journal prompt. Easiest Accomplishment: One of the more straightforward tasks was handling two teacher laptops before the break. The first involved a Surface laptop infected with ransomware. After disabling the teacher’s accounts and notifying the system admin, I performed a fresh Windows installation and reinstalled all necessary drivers. The process went smoothly since I’ve done similar resets before. The second laptop was outdated, running Windows 10 21H1, which prevented system updates and Outlook from working properly. I manually upgraded it to Windows 10 22H2 and then to Windows 11. Although the install took time, the process itself was routine. Hardest Accomplishment: The most challenging task was dealing with a middle school student misusing the school’s network. Investigating their actions revealed they were sending malicious scripts through SharePoint, all...

Building a strong professional network is essential for career growth, especially in the IT field. My networking strategy focuses on three key areas: workplace connections, online networking, and industry events. First, I am working on building relationships within my current workplace. As a Technology Technician, I regularly interact with IT staff, administrators, and occasionally vendors. By demonstrating my technical skills and problem-solving abilities on the job, I am establishing credibility and creating opportunities for future growth. I also make an effort to engage with my supervisors and colleagues, seeking advice on career development. Second, I am utilizing online platforms like LinkedIn to connect with IT professionals and stay informed about job opportunities. While I have started following industry leaders and sharing insights from my work experience, I recognize the need to be more active in these spaces. Additionally, I plan to join online communities focused on networ...

 Since I didn't really work this week I am going to use what I did last week. My biggest accomplishment was successfully managing the A/V setup and troubleshooting during the superintendent finalist forums. These events were critical for the district, as they provided staff and community members the opportunity to interact with the top candidates for the superintendent position. My role was to ensure that the audio and visual components functioned smoothly throughout the forums, minimizing disruptions and ensuring a professional presentation. While A/V is not my primary responsibility, I stepped up to ensure everything worked correctly. I set up the equipment, tested all connections, and remained on-site during each session to address any technical issues immediately. This proactive approach prevented potential disruptions and allowed the forums to proceed without any major problems. Additionally, I gained valuable experience in event technology support, which strengthened my troub...

 My "internship" is actually a full-time job as a Technology Technician at a school district. I was introduced to this opportunity through a contact who informed me of an open IT position. At the time, I was working as a banker, but I knew I wanted to transition into the IT field. I updated my resume to highlight my education and technical skills and applied for the position. During the hiring process, I answered additional technical questions, and my coursework helped me confidently respond with the correct answers. After my in-person interview, I was selected as the top candidate out of over 15 applicants, even though I initially felt I lacked hands-on experience. In this role, I am responsible for troubleshooting and repairing hardware and software issues, performing system maintenance, managing network infrastructure, providing user support and training, implementing security measures, and overseeing system upgrades and integrations. These responsibilities require a combi...

 Reflecting on my journey in IT, I recognize both my personal and professional strengths. Technically, I excel in troubleshooting and problem-solving, particularly with hardware and software issues, as demonstrated in my role as a Technology Technician. My knowledge of network systems, audiovisual equipment, and system maintenance allows me to handle a variety of challenges effectively. Non-technically, I am highly organized, detail-oriented, and proactive in identifying solutions. My ability to communicate clearly and collaborate with colleagues ensures tasks are completed efficiently and with minimal disruption. In terms of goals, my immediate objective is to finish my bachelor’s degree in Applied Science in Information Systems while continuing to work with the school district until my contract ends in June. After that, I plan to take the summer to secure an intermediate-level IT job, such as a network technician or technology specialist. This role will allow me to further develo...

As I begin this course, I am excited to integrate my role as a Technology Technician at a school district with the objectives of my internship class. Starting this position before the course has given me a head start in applying my academic knowledge to real-world challenges. My expectation for this class is to build on this experience, deepen my technical competence, and further develop the skills necessary for a successful IT career. Working in a school district has already exposed me to various aspects of IT support, including troubleshooting hardware and software issues, maintaining network systems, and collaborating with staff to ensure smooth operations. Through this course, I hope to expand my understanding of how these tasks align with broader IT practices while identifying opportunities to improve and learn new techniques. One key expectation I have is to reflect on my professional growth through the journaling process. This will allow me to analyze my strengths, recognize new...