The official Microsoft transcript has been updated and has assigned the Microsoft Certified Desktop Support Technician (MCDST) credential to my MCP record. Now I am studying for the Windows Server 2003 exam and doing practically every hands-on practice to get up and ready for the 070-290 exam coming up at the end of this month.

This is a little off-topic story about a Microsoft MCSE candidate. During my first visit to take the Microsoft exam, I met an Asian man who had the same exam appointment but taking the 070-290 exam. I initiated a few questions to learn his background in IT and which exam he was taking. After listening to his replies, I was a little concerned for him even though he said he had years of experience.

• He knew about the Second-Chance Offer but he didn't apply for it (ummm..it takes no more than two minutes )
• He used the Microsoft Press Training-Kit but didn't know that a practice exam CD was enclosed in the back of the book
• Paid full exam fee (understandable )
• Did not know that the Microsoft Windows Server 2008 and Vista exams came out few months ago
• Didn't seem to know much about what's going on with Microsoft (i.e. Microsoft Heroes nationwide event)

Early this month, I installed Microsoft Windows Vista Ultimate on one of the PC and started learning the new OS from the ground up. The exam preparation materials are an excellent guide for both IT members and home users. I just bought a Prometric voucher for the 070-620 TS: Windows Vista, Configuring exam at half price and got it registered for mid-May. This exam is one of the core client exam for both the MCSE and MCSA.