Young programmer looking to become an all-star in Java

Young programmer looking to become an all-star in Java

Hi Jon,

I certainly wish I would have read your columns and done some more research earlier; however, my current situation is that I am a relatively new grad (BSc. CISC), recently certified as a solutions consultant in mySAP Financials (R/3 Enterprise).

My work experience has been mainly with Web applications: Javascript, PHP, and with Oracle, mySQL databases on the back end. Based on advice in previous columns I am wondering how to "wrap" up my prior skills with my recent certification and maximize my marketability. Based on my qualifications what is your advice as to how to best accomplish this?

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My advice is to continue to pursue enterprise-level Web development work. The main thing is to continue to expand on your Java-based skills - whether you're working in SAP or not isn't the most important thing. However, you could certainly look into some SAP certifications that would compliment your current skills base.

The news for you is mostly good: one of the most common ways to break into SAP is from the Java/web development side. I would focus less on trying to get into SAP and more on taking on the most challenging programming projects you can. If you become an all-star Java programmer, someone who can handle custom development in large corporate settings, you should be able to find your way into SAP sooner or later.

This was first published in July 2005