Status: MCSE acquired.

I figured as long as I had some momentum, then keep the ball rolling. The Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert certification required the MCSA certification plus two additional exams. The 70-413 and 70-414 exams focus on designing and implementing advanced server infrastructure and require an in-depth, working knowledge of the Microsoft platform and tools. The MCSE exams also employ a variety of testing methods—not just multiple choice and fill-in-the-blank questions—that make it far more difficult to pass if you’ve only just memorized a list of facts and figures. These exams include several in-depth case studies and the trickiest True/False questions I’ve ever seen. Needless to say, it has been stressful preparing for these exams and I am happy and more than a little relieved at the accomplishment.

For the history books:

• 70-413 test on Apr 1 with a score of 790
• 70-414 test on Apr 9 with a score of 866

Status: MCSA acquired.

The exam is three tests, each has a possible score of 1000 points with a passing score of 700 points. It took me an average of 50 hours per exam of study and preparation over the course of 6 weeks. I’m looking forward to re-introducing myself to my wife and child and learning what they’ve been up to since the end of January.

For the history books:

• 70-410 test on Feb 6 with a score of 868
• 70-411 test on Feb 27 with a score of 866
• 70-412 test on Mar 12 with a score of 775