Cattle Drive Colleges

[Mike Pirrone]

I took a java class at a community college and now I am taking an object oriented course at a universitry focusing on java and my question is.. upon completion of the cattle drive, will i have everything needed to take the java certification exam? I am really eager to send my money and get things started. thanks
-mike-

[Matthew Phillips]

The cattle drive does not focus on exam objectives, so it will not help with the exam. The real focus is on good programming habits. I thing that you will find that most people on the drive swear by the benefits of the drive in that area.

[Darryl Failla]

Begin by frequenting the Programmer Certification Study forum. Read and understand all the posts. Get a Certification Study text (make sure it applies for the new 1.4 exam). Know every answer on Rules Roundup.
When you get those down, hit the mock exams. Becoming SCJP is not hard, but it takes time and perseverance. You will find JavaRanch to be your most valuable resource. Good luck.

[Mike Pirrone]

Ok, that works. I am ready to send out the money. I have another question. Next summer I'm going to be eligible for the co-op program at my school in Jax, FL. (UNF) Its basically a paid internship through my school. Now along with a good GPA and possibly a certification, do you think that would increase my chances of attaining a co-op? thanks so much
-mike-

[Sean Webster]

Hello Mike,
Think of the certification exam as a credential and the cattle drive and experience. I was skeptical at first about the cattle drive, but after simply submitting 1 assignment, the code review is very rigorous. This has forced me to stop, think, think, and think some more about what I need to do and how to elegantly solve the problem in accordance with the style guide. I highly recommend the cattle drive and look forward to learning good habits along the way.
I don�t think the cattle drive will help you much with the exam since the exam is very tricky. Passing the exam is about burying yourself in exam prep material for weeks until you are savvy to the ways of the exam and are able to consistently pass the practice exams.
Good luck!