"Hi folks, I wanted to share my journey and get some perspective from this veteran community. I recently attended the induction and felt the start was well-structured, but despite 18 years of experience in ITSM and Project Management, I received a ‘FAIL’ on the actual exam. I didn't take the preparation lightly. I completed Andrew Ramdayal’s 35-hour PDU course, lived by his YouTube mindset videos, tackled 200 TIA simulator questions, and finished 3 Simplilearn test simulators plus an AR Mock, where I was averaging a 65% score. Despite all that focused prep, the 'PMI Mindset' still felt at odds with my nearly two decades of real-world leadership. It makes me wonder: is the recurring cost and 'temporary' nature of a certification the best path for someone at my career stage? I am now strongly considering a pivot toward an MBA in Project Management. My goal is to secure a permanent, lifetime academic degree. I may even aim to complete the PMP during the MBA program when I have that academic structure to help bridge the mindset gap. I’d love to hear your thoughts to get a discussion going: • For those with 15+ years of experience, did you find the PMP mindset felt 'unnatural' compared to your ITSM reality? • Do you feel a Master’s degree holds more weight for senior IT leadership roles than a revolving certification? • Has anyone here successfully integrated PMP prep into their MBA studies? Please share your comments and suggestions below—I’m looking forward to a deep dive on the ROI of degrees vs. certifications for seasoned pros!"

I failed.

Here are some links to my materials that students use to pass the PMP. Here is a link to my Live PMP Bootcamp: "This course is great for folks who like direct instructor interaction and feedback." https://www.tiaedu.com/training_pmp_course_nyc.html Here is a link to my e-learning or live PMP coaching class. "Pass your PMP exam in 30 days!" https://tiaexams.com/pmcourses Check out my exam simulator: "Think you're ready to take on the PMP? Prove it with exam like questions and video explanations." https://tiaexams.com/pmcourses Check out my exam ebook PMP Exam Prep Simplified: "The same detailed book in a convenient digital format." https://tiaexams.com/pmcourses Check out my PMP Cram Course: "A quick refresher right before the exam?" https://tiaexams.com/pmcourses Check out my 60 PDU PMP Renewal Course: "One-stop-shop for PMP renewal qualification." https://tiaexams.com/bundle/60-pdu-bundle Here is a link to my Amazon Study Guide: "My bestselling study guide. Comes with a free 35 PDU PMP course." https://www.amazon.com/PMP-Exam-Prep-Simplified-Learning/dp/B08SBFTXQT/ Here is a link to my Youtube Channel: "See all the latest PMP from me and live weekly Q&A." https://www.youtube.com/c/AndrewRamdayal -AR

I plan to take the exam in February. Looking for a fast paced study regime. I have done the 35hr course, approved for the exam and bought PMI SH. I am EST based but very flexible on time.