I live north of DC along I-270 and just got my SCWCD today.
There is still so much stuff I still need to know. I would think that the knowledge required to pass the
SCEA would better prepare you for the job interview.
Java Development is highly sought after in the Washington DC area. You'll see advertisements for
J2EE developers.
I have found that the easiest way to get into an interview in your position is to attend the local college job fairs since they are receptive to "newbies".
As far as job offers, I guess I'll have to see how my SCWCD affects the number of offers I might get.