I'm making a good pace in the 70-461 book. Although I took two weeks worth of breaks, I've managed to finish 75% of the book and should finish the whole book within a month of starting (11/22 - 12/22). I'm thinking I can finish each MCSA exam portion (read the book , practice exams) In about 6-7 weeks total, so I can wrap this whole MCSA thing in about 18-21 weeks and leave me time to tackle the MCSE! Now I've already accumulated five years of practical experience and the exams are just a way to test my aptitude and expose me to things I don't normally have an opportunity to use much at work. In any case, MCSE sounds like a good goal, after the MCSA of course. After that? Hmm...more dev stuff, which might not be covered in any formal exam or go back to school and snag a Math Degree. Ha. Goals March 2016 -- MCSA certification June 2016 -- MCSE certification Rest of 2016 -- study code!