Hello Professionals,

This has been a very informative and useful forum. I have seen a number of experienced pros. giving their valuable input in this forum. Thanks to all these folks.

There has been a lot of talk, in this forum, about Paper-DBAs vs. DBAs with real-world experince.

It is true that no company will hire a paper-DBA just on the certification. But, as one does not have experience, he/she cannot be hired, and because one can't get hired, he/she cannot gain real-world experience as DBA.

It boils down to how to get a break, after becoming "paper-DBA". I have not seen a position of 'junior DBA'. (or a position where an inexperienced paper-dba can gain experience). I believe that most of the people who pass the OCP, have some IT experience (or already working as DBA).
In my case, i have been working as developer and now in the middle of dba-certification process (OCP).

Any suggestions are welcome!

Thanks a lot for your time and input.

PraKul