Grad School Sessions

Finish off your TechMentor experience with these in-depth, resume-building GRAD SCHOOL sessions. In just half a day, you will learn to support SQL server and "speak" the SQL language, deploy Windows client and server operating systems, and prepare your environment for Exchange Server 2010. These are intense, information-packed sessions; these are not hands-on workshops.

GS1 - Supporting SQL Server – When You’d Really Rather Not
Don Jones
Friday, March 11, 2010: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Are you stuck supporting one or more SQL Server instances – even the pervasive Express Edition – just because you’re the “Microsoft Guy/Gal?” This is the perfect session for you: Don Jones, a self-proclaimed “Jack of All Tech,” explains how SQL Server works, offers advice for critical tasks like setting up a disaster recovery plan, and shows you how to analyze and optimize database performance – even with the databases from third-party enterprise apps! Bring all of your tough SQL Server administration questions, too, for personal advice and tips that will make supporting SQL Server less painful and more gainful! In addition, Don will teach you the industry-standard SQL language that will serve you in Oracle, MySQL, SQL Server, PostgreSQL, and numerous other database platforms. You’ll learn key Data Manipulation Language (DML) queries as well as standardized Data Definition Language (DDL) statements used to build and modify databases. Don’t underestimate the boost that SQL can give to your resume – and don’t overestimate the difficulty! Bring a laptop with a database engine, query tool, and sample database and practice right along with Don as you master the SQL language more quickly and easily than you thought possible. 

GS2 - GRAD SCHOOL: Exchange 2010 - Are You Ready?
J. Peter Bruzzese
Friday, March 11, 2010: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Exchange's storage architecture has changed! Its high availability options are revamped! Its Unified Messaging features are enhanced! ARE you READY? DO you CARE? You should, because Exchange 2010 is Microsoft's most robust messaging environment to date! Watch from the sideline or bring your own laptop at this Grad School Session. With world-renown Exchange expert Peter Bruzzese as your guide, you'll work with a prepared .VHD of Exchange 2010. You'll experience the many new features waiting for your organization. This three-hour end-of-the-week session will walk through its new capabilities, explore its interface, and give you plenty of time to answer all your questions. You'll leave with Exchange 2010 in your heart, mind, and laptop.