[Gllug] VACANCY: Junior Systems Support

[Stephen Nelson-Smith]

Hi,

>  In my experience, there's a strong correlation
> between minimum levels of competence and a relevant degree from a good
> university.

I have a degree from a good university (the best IMHO :o)), but in an
arts subject.  I've worked alongside, managed and been managed by a
variety of people with IT, other scientific, arts and no degrees.
Without a doubt my experience has been as follows:

* A degree (any degree) from a good university (ie one where you have
to do a decent amount of fairly difficult work) gives a superb
grounding in the skills required to be a good programmer and sysadmin.
* I've found that the skills I learned from University have given me a
huge head start over other people trying to teach themselves.
* People who -have- taught themselves often have excellent practical
skills, but holes in understanding.

On the whole I would say that a decent degree education is a huge
asset, but I wouldn't use it as any kind of indication of the ability
or calibre of the candidate.  I would always advocate a rigorous
practical trial in which the candidate is given tasks to do which
closely match those they will be required to do in the job for which
they are applying.  I've interviewed a large number of people this way
- the results have been exceptional - and we've also weeded out people
who looked fantastic on paper, and did very well at first stage
interviews.

S.
-- 
Stephen Nelson-Smith
Technical Director
Atalanta Systems Ltd
www.atalanta-systems.com
-- 
Gllug mailing list  -  Gllug at gllug.org.uk
http://lists.gllug.org.uk/mailman/listinfo/gllug