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Tips and Experiences in Learning SQL Server
Kathy wrote in with her thoughts – "I came into the database world with a background in FORTRAN & IDL (Interactive Data Language), also VAX/VMS and HP-UX. About 3 years prior to becoming involved in db programming, I had been sent to a 3-day seminar/class in how to design databases – little theory, lots of hands-on situations designing various databases in small groups. Best class I have ever taken!
Then in 1999, I was asked to move databases from S1032 (which ran on our VAX computer) to SQL Server and to get the apps working with a web interface. Well, since S1032 is totally proprietary, only ran on VAX, and they wanted to get rid of the VAX computers, all code had to be re-written from scratch. I refused to write any code unless I understood what I was doing (didn’t need to be an *expert*, just needed to understand). I did take some courses through a training company, but I also did lots and lots of reading. In addition, I took the MCDBA exams (and passed).
Yes, there have been times when I wished I had access to an experienced database person. My databases may not be perfect, but they are much better than the databases that existed previously."
Venesa’s thoughts – "I had 2 wonderful mentors when I started my career. After about a year, they had both left the company and I was on my own for several months. By that point, I had a solid foundation and was able to manage without them and learn as I went.
I do think that the best way to learn is with a mentor/coach. You really need someone to walk you through the thought processes involved in managing a system, working with business users, troubleshooting and coordinating outages/changes. You can’t learn these things from a book. Anyone can learn the technology, its the softer skills in conjunction with the technical skills that makes an excellent DBA."
Lisa had similar experiences – "I agree with the article on mentoring. I started out doing dba type work and taking a class. That only got me so far without daily assistance. Being the only person in IT at the time, there was nobody to assist me.
Once I moved into a DBA group in another company, I was able to put my “hard learned” lessons into context and develop a deeper understanding of process, procedure and best practice. I have now been in the DBA role for 9 years and find myself mentoring other people. It is not only a great way to build up resources in the company and ensuring that there is redundancy with the roles, but it also allows for career development of the jr resources. I think the most rewarding experience I had was when I heard my jr resource say.. “it depends” when asked a question."
What do you think? What’s the best way to learn? Or, more specifically, what’s been YOUR experience?
Drop me an email here, let me know.
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