Log Entry 004 - Certified (The Hard Way)
Source: Dev.to
Exam Timeline and Outcome
The original plan was February 26th. Today is March 2nd, and I just closed the exam window with a Pass on the screen. I needed an extra week because I realized I had underestimated the fundamentals. I learned that knowing of a service is not the same as understanding its architectural purpose.
Preparation Resources
Microsoft Practice Assessment
This was the real game‑changer. It aligned closely with the actual exam logic and helped me identify gaps I had previously overlooked.
NotebookLM
I used this heavily to “interrogate” specific sections of the documentation. It’s one thing to read a paragraph; it’s another to have a focused tool help you deconstruct complex concepts through targeted Q&A.
The Bigger Picture: Breadth vs. Depth
The AI‑102 remains my North Star because it aligns my private interests with my current professional environment. However, passing the AI‑900 made me realize that I want to be more than just an “Azure implementer.” I aim to become a well‑rounded AI Engineer.
To achieve that, I’m considering broadening my horizon by working through DataCamp’s AI Fundamentals. While Microsoft provides the tools, I want to ensure my foundation is platform‑agnostic and theoretically sound.
The “Fundamentals” badge is on the digital shelf. For now, the “RAG‑in‑a‑box” project is on the back burner due to pressing job‑related tasks. Once the dust settles, I’ll dive into the DataCamp curriculum, reassess my path, and decide on the next concrete steps toward becoming an AI Engineer.
Cheers,
Pat