I first learned of IAAP and the CAP certification when I attended a workshop for Executive Assistants to Heads of School hosted by Independent School Management. (By the way, a fantastic experience - If you're an EA to a HoS, I highly recommend it.)

As we went around the room sharing our SWOT analyses, I explained that I believed I had one characteristic that was not only a weakness but also a threat - and that is that I do not have a college degree. Although I have more than 20 years of experience as an administrative professional in different types of settings, I believe that my lack of college education is a weakness and a threat.

At that point, our workshop leader shared information on IAAP and CAP certification. She stated that it is her belief, at the stage I am in of career and life, that a CAP certification would carry as much weight as a degree.

Once I returned to work, I conducted some research on CAP certification and became very excited. After giving a report to my boss, he was very encouraging and supportive of me pursuing this endeavor.

I don't know that becoming certified will net any tangible benefits (I'm hoping for a salary increase - fingers crossed) but it will give me a sense of accomplishment and I won't be so self-conscious about my lack of degree.

You have definitely taken the right step towards having a differential & as CAB Chair am thrilled to share that our accreditation for CAP is in full swing! You are closer to a degree than you may have thought!

Congratulations on taking this next step in your personal and professional development. Best wishes with your studies and be sure to post again once you receive your exam results so we can celebrate your success with you!

Summer - Congratulations on taking the step to attain CAP certification. You will achieve a sense of accomplishment in preparing and studying for the exam.

Linda L. Rolfe CAP (Ret.), OM

Congrats on sitting for the CAP exam.

Thank you for the words of encouragement!

It really is interesting to see all the intangible qualities that come along with the pursuit of certification. The self confidence, increased knowledge, expanded areas of competence, discipline from the studying, etc.

Certification is worth so much more than the money it costs or the raises it brings. It's a cumulative improved career.

You go girl!

Thank you for your story. That is the one thing that has always plagued me as well, not having a college degree. I am confident that studying for and passing the CAP exam is the first step to getting rid of the "must have a college degree' stigma for EA's. Wishing you the best of luck. -Samantha