Greetings, fellow learners! Welcome back to my channel. For those new here, I'm Day—a cybersecurity professional and college student. On this platform, I delve into the realms of cybersecurity, college life, certifications, and internships. Today's focus is on a significant achievement: passing the AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner exam. As the foundational AWS certification, it's an entry point into the world of cloud technologies. So, let's dive into how I embarked on this journey and emerged victorious.
The Role of AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner: A Multifaceted Triumph
The AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner exam holds multiple meanings for me. First, it was a requirement for my cloud foundations course at WGU. The exam, therefore, became a bridge to fulfilling an academic obligation. Second, it aligned with the demands of my current job role, adding a layer of professional relevance. Lastly, as I ventured into AWS after working extensively with Azure, the exam was a new horizon for learning.
A New Frontier: Learning AWS
As I took my first steps into AWS, I recognized that my limited experience necessitated comprehensive preparation. While I had some hands-on experience through the AWS Management Console, this was my first major interaction with AWS on an exam-focused level. With 35 to 40 hours of studying ahead, the journey was daunting yet exhilarating.
A Countdown to Success: Study Approach
My journey commenced just 12 days before the exam, a period encompassing two weeks of focused dedication. I delved into resources that proved invaluable in shaping my understanding of AWS.
Guiding Lights: Neil Davis and Stefan Marek
Two Udemy courses played pivotal roles in my preparation. Neil Davis' course offered an expansive overview of AWS on a foundational level. His lectures, supplemented with summaries, quizzes, and a practice exam, set the stage for a comprehensive grasp of AWS essentials. Stefan Marek's course, on the other hand, zoomed in on exam-relevant content. His consolidated approach, focused solely on exam requirements, streamlined my study process.
Labs: The Keystone of Learning
Both courses emphasized hands-on labs, a practice I actively engaged in. Labs reinforced theoretical learning with practical application. These guided exercises not only showcased how to navigate the AWS Management Console but also embedded the concepts deep into my understanding.
Cost-Efficiency: AWS Free Tier and Billing Alarms
As labs require an AWS account, I capitalized on the AWS Free Tier. Setting up billing alarms acted as a safeguard against unintended charges. This feature, a commendable inclusion by AWS, ensured I could practice without worrying about unexpected costs.
In conclusion, my AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner journey was a blend of strategic preparation, hands-on labs, and guided learning. The 12-day study period was intense yet manageable. As you embark on your own cloud certification journey, remember—AWS is within reach, waiting to be explored.
Strategies for AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner Success: Insider Insights
Hello again, my fellow learners. As we continue our exploration into mastering AWS, I'm thrilled to share my journey toward conquering the AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner exam. I'm Day, a cybersecurity enthusiast and college student, and today, let's unravel the last leg of my study saga.
Strategies and Resources: A Path to Achievement
As my exam day neared, I harnessed the power of strategic resources to prepare comprehensively.
Embracing Udemy's Treasures: Neil Davis and Stefan Marek
The Udemy courses by Neil Davis and Stefan Marek remained my mainstay throughout my preparation. Neil Davis' course provided a holistic understanding of AWS essentials, while Stefan Marek's course strategically aligned with exam content. These courses served as a strong foundation, offering both breadth and depth of AWS knowledge.
Three-Hour Condensation: FreeCodeCamp's YouTube Video
Supplementing my learning was FreeCodeCamp's three-hour YouTube blog. Condensed and exam-focused, it delivered a succinct summary of exam content. Although slightly dated, this blog remains a valuable resource for those seeking a last-minute refresher.
Strategic Revision: Maximizing Course Materials
In my final study stages, I revisited section summaries and exam crams from both Udemy courses. These concise reviews encapsulated key takeaways without the need to revisit entire course material. It was an efficient way to refresh my memory and solidify my understanding.
Practice Makes Perfect: The Final Push
Practice exams served as the ultimate test of my preparedness. I engaged in rigorous practice using Neil Davis' Udemy practice exam, which comprised six full-length exams. These mock exams, scoring me between the high 70s and 90s, ensured my readiness for the real challenge.
Showtime: A Home-Based Exam Experience
With my preparation in place, I took the AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner exam from the comfort of my home. The 65-question exam offered an ample 90 minutes for completion. Finishing in under 30 minutes, I found the exam relatively straightforward—a testament to diligent preparation.
Embracing the AWS Journey: Future Endeavors
My journey into AWS is far from over. As I continue my studies, I'm eyeing the AWS Systems Administrator and Security Specialty exams. These certifications will further solidify my AWS expertise, aligning with my career focus on AWS security.
A Plethora of Resources: Your Key to Success
To assist you on your AWS journey, I've compiled links to all the resources mentioned in this blog. Whether you're a student, a professional, or an enthusiast, these resources offer a valuable toolkit for mastering AWS.
In conclusion, remember that success in the AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner exam is attainable with the right resources and a dedicated study approach. Harness the wealth of information available, invest time in practical labs, and embark on this journey with confidence. The AWS cloud awaits your exploration, and I'm here to assist you at every step.
