I am in school for IT... What is the best way to get into a business without having my certification, as I will have it within a year.

Hi,
Find a company you like (that has an IT department of course) and make your presence known. There's bound to be an opening. Then work like heck to get it.

That's what I did. I still don't have my degree but I made sure everyone knew of my skills and I worked hard. I started ground floor. There was an opening in the marketing department and I got it because I was on the inside. I alone do all the graphic design for the entire company (for our US and International locations) as well as design the Corporate Identity for all our new companies. In a few months, I will be traveling to our different locations. By the time I get my degree, I will manage the company's website design as well. I'm only 21. So my point is... you can do it!

I know there are a lot of companies that will pay for education and certification. My company is like that. So my advice... get in and work hard! Be sure you let everyone know that you plan on moving up.

I've seen our IT people work towards certification and advanced degrees and they "do" get promoted quick. These days, it's all about the computer skills. Good luck!

To emphasize what was said above: You may have to take a job that seems “beneath you” to get your foot in the door. Answer phones. Deliver mail. Whatever. Then work hard, have a positive attitude and network inside the company. Maybe find a mentor in the department you really want to be in.

The degree is always a plus and a great thing to have. But it is seldom an absolute requirement for most entry-level IT jobs. Skills are what count especially if they know you ARE getting your degree soon.