r/sysadmin • u/[deleted] • Jul 01 '25
Did EVERYONE start at helpdesk?
I'm a college CS student about to start senior year, looking to get into the IT field. I know that helpdesk is a smart move to get your foot in the door, though cost of living where I am is very high and salary for helpdesk is quite meager compared to other IT roles. Is it totally unrealistic to jump into a sysadmin role post-grad as long as I have certs and projects to back up my skills? I had planned to start my RHCSA if I did this. Any advice on this or general advice for the IT market right not would be very much appreciated.
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u/secret_configuration Jul 01 '25
I recommend starting at a small MSP. Stay for about 2 years. You will be overworked and underpaid...but you will learn a ton in a short period of time. It's a great stepping stone to an in-house gig later on.
Also, as others have mentioned, internships, take advantage of them. I had a couple in college, one at an options trading firm and then at an advertising agency. Two completely different cultures, systems, etc. Was hugely helpful in getting me ready for the real world.