GOM4 Orientation Task Assignment Template Note: Source citations, including APA style, are not required for this assessment. Student Information Student name: Eric Rihm ID number: 000622891 Date: 2/22/24 Section A1 My decision to attend WGU is driven by a desire to formalize my experience and knowledge in the IT field, particularly in advanced networking and security. With the tech landscape rapidly evolving, I see this as a critical step to staying ahead in my career. WGU's flexible, competency-based education aligns with my work schedule. My "why" is to deepen my expertise, gain industry recognized credentials, and position myself as a leader. Section A2 Completing my program at WGU will be a great milestone, marking a transition to more leadership roles within IT. I envision leveraging the skills and knowledge acquired to drive innovation and efficiency in network and cloud infrastructure. On a personal level, achieving this degree will fulfill my dedication to professional development, setting a positive example for my family about the value of lifelong learning. Section B1 I am enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in Network Operations and Security program at WGU, which is tailored for IT professionals looking to advance their knowledge in designing, implementing, and managing secure network infrastructure. This program is appealing to me because it integrates industry certifications within the curriculum while blending theory with practical skills that are directly applicable to my current role and future career goals. Section B2 Two key requirements of my program include obtaining industry certifications and completing a capstone project. Certifications such as CompTIA Security+ and Linux Essentials are fundamentals to my career progression. These will validate my skills in network security and infrastructure management. The capstone project will allow me to apply theoretical concepts to real world scenarios. This will enhance my problemsolving abilities and prepare me to tackle complex challenges in networking. Section C1 C1-A I anticipate turning to my Program Mentor when I encounter difficulty navigating the balance between work, study, and certification preparations. Their guidance will be crucial in helping me prioritize my coursework and develop an effective study plan especially for certifcations that aligns with my career goals and professional responsibilities. C1-B I expect to seek guidance from my Instructor when delving into advanced topics related to Linux and network protocols in preparation for certification exams and what to expect from these exams. Their expertise will be invaluable in helping my understanding of these areas, ensuring I have the confidence to apply this knowledge effectively. Section C2 To build momentum in my first term at WGU, I plan to establish a consistent study routine, dedicating specific hours each week to coursework. I will also be participating with the WGU community via Discord and Facebook for support and networking. Additionally, I will set goals for each course, breaking down larger tasks into manageable smaller tasks to maintain momentum and stay motivated throughout my studies. Section D My time management strategy involves creating a study schedule that accommodates my work commitments and personal time. I will use tools like a calendar to block out dedicated study times, set reminders for upcoming deadlines, and track my progress. To maintain focus I’ll use a technique to divide blocks with short intervals of 5 minute breaks during study sessions. This will ensure I maintain a balanced approach to prevent burnout and sustain productivity. Part 2: Time Sunday 6:00 AM 6:30 AM 7:00 AM 7:30 AM 8:00 AM 8:30 AM 2 Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Study Study Study Study Study Study Study Study Study Study Saturday 9:00 AM 9:30 AM 10:00 AM 10:30 AM 11:00 AM 11:30 AM 12:00 PM 12:30 PM 1:00 PM 1:30 PM 2:00 PM 2:30 PM 3:00 PM 3:30 PM 4:00 PM 4:30 PM 5:00 PM 5:30 PM 6:00 PM 6:30 PM 7:00 PM 7:30 PM 8:00 PM 8:30 PM 9:00 PM 9:30 PM 10:00 PM 10:30 PM 11:00 PM 11:30 PM 12:00 AM 12:30 AM 1:00 AM 1:30 AM 2:00 AM 2:30 AM 3:00 AM 3:30 AM 4:00 AM 4:30 AM 5:00 AM 5:30 AM 3 Study Study Study Study Study Study Study Study Study Study Study Study Study Study Study Study Study Study Study Study Study Study Study Study Study Study Study Study Study Study Study Study Study Study Study Study Study Study Study Study Study Study Study Study Study