I think entering programming contests are good experience: it trains your mind to see the problem clearly, and create a solution that is direct and to the point; not dissimiliar to solving "real-world" problems, just without the added pressure of your manager (or their manager, or your customers) breathing down your neck to get it done.
Started out as an enlisted USAF programmer; one day, our office was provided a AT&T 3B2 running SystemVR3 for 'office automation'; since it wasn't doing anything, I started to monkey around and accidentally corrupted the OS and crashed the system. I found the tape with the OS on it and the manual for installation, and began my life as an admin by rebuilding the server. 11 years later, I am still at it.:)
In my present office, we have trained folks from all sorts of backgrounds (notably an English major and an astrophysicist) into quality admins; We have found it takes three things to become an admin:
the ability to learn
the willingness to learn
convincing an admin shop to give you the chance
Not to say there aren't other factors, but these are the biggies.
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My bias: I am the reigning Obfuscated Perl champ.
In my present office, we have trained folks from all sorts of backgrounds (notably an English major and an astrophysicist) into quality admins; We have found it takes three things to become an admin:
- the ability to learn
- the willingness to learn
- convincing an admin shop to give you the chance
Not to say there aren't other factors, but these are the biggies.