No Job... MCAD .NET Worth It?

[BoulderBum]

Since getting my BS CS a year ago, I've been in a mode of intensive self-instruction to make myself more marketable. I've read through 6000+ pages of computer programming text, and developed 150+ projects, developing a skill set that rivals those with several times the "years experience" in the process.

I certainly don't know all there is to know yet, but I'm darn good, and I've found I can hang with most of the "more experienced" developers I've worked with. I should be a shoe-in for an entry level position. The problem: after trying for 3 months to convince employers of my skills, I can't even get noticed enough to land an interview!

I looked at some study guides for the MCAD .NET, and it seems like I would be able to pass the tests with minimal studying, but I don't know if I should commit $800 to study guides, practice tests, and the actual tests. I have NO money right now, no job, and I don't want to throw another $800 out the window.

Do you tek-tippians think getting the cert would pay off? I'm determined to get into software development because I enjoy it, but I realize that in today's economy, I'll need an edge to get hired. Is the MCAD .NET the way?

 

[Ladyhawk]

You don't need to spend any money to get study guides. Just look at the Microsoft site to see what is being tested for each exam and use the Internet/MSDN to study from.

Ladyhawk.
** ASP/VB/Java Programmer **