Do you like solving problems? What about electronics and gadgets, do you have a knack for those as well? Do you have patience to see a problem through until its resolution? Can you document and retrace steps taken for solutions that have worked in the past?

Does new technology excite or frighten you? Is this a field others such as friends and parents are recommending? Are you apprehensive of computers or are you fascinated and naturally curious, asking "what happens when I click on A, B, or C?"

Can you learn quickly and retain what you learn? Are you flexible, cooperative and customer-friendly in the work place or at school?

Are you able to "think outside the box" and develop your own solutions and innovations even when it's "not in the manual?"

Can you follow directions well from fellow workers, teachers and books, multimedia, CDs/DVDs, books and manuals?

Can you "weather the storms" of the job market financially, career-wise and socially. Perhaps later on even delving into an offshoot of the field you originally received your degree in?

Or, on the other hand are you an individual that just likes to put in their time at work, have the same level of stress each day and then go home and relax at night.

Do you wish only to work in one or two positions in your lifetime and then collect a pension?

If you are a person that thrives on stress and solving new problems then a career in computers and information technology will suit you well. If you do not like change, however, and want a stable, unchanging career, then computers and technology will probably not take you where you are headed in life.

What attracted you to computers to begin with? Do you genuinely like computers and believe in technology and its purpose? Or, are you just after a shot at the big money?

Receiving a degree in any type of technology field in today's volatile job market is no guarantee of a hefty salary. So, be sure you genuinely like what computers do and what you can contribute to the field of technology. You will still receive some status as other individuals generally have a high regard for those who can "fix computers" and "write programs." Most people cannot do this and know only enough to get them through daily life.

As an A+ certified computer technician, I have enjoyed status and freedom. The salary is unpredictable but I have a genuine interest in computer technology and what the future holds. I enjoy learning new skills and know that each day will bring new challenges. The feeling of solving a problem that no one else had the knowledge to is beyond comparison.

Be sure you ask yourself all of these questions, make a list of the pros and cons and then decide if a degree in computers or information technology will be right for you and your future.

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