Certification as an Administrative Professional has been a dream of mine for so long I can't remember when it actually started. But, like many of you, life intervened many times and the dream kept being put off and seemed to be slipping away. Now, however, is my time and I've made it my MISSION - not just a goal - to final do it. I'm fortunate enough to work for a very supportive employer who is not only encouraging me to obtain it, but is also paying for my membership and all fees associated. In addition, I am the lead administrative support person at the site of the company for which I work, and I have a team of admins that work with and report directly to me. It is extremely important to me that I lead by example and exhibit for them not only the importance of staying current in the profession, but also the advantages and prestige that a designation such as CAP (and eventually OM) imparts. I look forward to learning all that I can and to improving the skills that my many years in the industry have taught me. I am excited by this journey and can't wait to see where it leads me! I'll appreciate all the support and encouragement I can get as I don't expect this to be easy.

Hi, Luann. Like you, a CAP certification has been THE work dream for many years. Are you in Marie Herman's Study Group / Fall 2019? I am and hope to see you there!

Good luck to you Luann!

Thanks for sharing your story.  Best of luck in your certification journey.

Congratulations on taking this next step in your personal and professional development, Luann. I love that you realize what a positive example you are setting for others. Best wishes with your studies!

Hi Luann,

I have also had the dream to get my CAP for years now but have been unable to get it due to finances and now as I am unemployed I am wishing I had the acquire the designation and the skill levels that come with it. Thanks for sharing your inspiring story and best wishes for you on your journey.

Keep up the good work Luann!

You are never too old or have too much experience or too educated to pursue certification. Congratulations to everyone in this link that has made the decision to go in this directions. To Bernadette, you may not be able to apply to sit for the exam right now but you can still study the subjects covered. Back in "the day" when I went through this experience, we didn't have dedicated study material and begged/borrowed books on the subjects from friends and the library. You can still do that. It will also show prospective employers you are serious about your profession.

Luann - Best of luck in pursuing your certification goal. Thanks to your employer for the encouragement you are getting pursuing the goal, paying your membership and additional fees. You are setting a wonderful example to the admins who report to you. Learn as much as you can.


Linda L. Rolfe, CAP (Ret.), OM

Congratulations on working to turn your dream into reality. It is wonderful that you have the support of your management. Best of luck with your studies and the exam.

One of my favorite phrases is an old japanese proverb...

Vision without action is a dream; action without vision is a nightmare!

You have identified your goal and put together an action plan to achieve it. It won't be a dream for long! It will be reality soon!