I took my 70-236 exam today, and I passed!

In 7-10 days when my score is processed, I'll have the Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS): Microsoft Exchange Server 2007, Configuration certification.

This exam, along with 70-237 (Exchange Design) and 70-238 (Exchange Deployment), are requirements for the next level of certification, the Microsoft Certified IT Professional (MCITP): Enterprise Messaging Administrator.

All three are required for applying to the Microsoft Certified Master: Exchange 2007 program, along with a fourth requirement: a MCSE 2003 certification, or 70-640: Active Directory on Windows Server 2008.

I never completed my MCSE, so I have to take all four exams to even apply to the MCM program.

Given that I want to complete the other 3 exams by the end of January, here's my proposed schedule for doing so:

• Complete 70-237 by Friday January 9th
• Complete 70-238 by Friday January 16th
• Complete 70-640 by Friday January 23rd, or Friday January 30th at the latest.

If I can complete all three exams by January 30th, that gives me two full weeks to apply to the MCM program and provide the $12,950 (30% of $18,500) discounted payment by the deadline of February 14th.

I think I may purchase the first e-learning course by Microsoft and load it up on my netbook.. That way, it would be easier to take it with me over the holiday vacation. :)