CCIE R&S Lab Attempt

OK, guys. I have mostly been a lurker here for the past year but wanted to
share my experience (NDA rules so, I'm not going to tell you ANY specifics
about the lab. Don't even bother asking!).

So, I'm back at the hotel after two LONG days...

I have a few points that I would like to share my perspective on.

1) OEQ: These are not as bad as some people are making them out to be. If
you have a sound understanding of the R&S/CCNP written material, this
section *should* be a breeze. I have said it before and will say it again,
this NOT something to be stressed out about.
2) Content: I was very impressed at the material the product manager/content
developers are using for the current R&S exam. It's diversified and really
tests the candidates practical knowledge and troubleshooting skills.
3) Lunch: Not impressed, this is my second lunch at Cisco and I wish they
would just get something SAFE like pizza. I'm allergic to nuts and shellfish
and both times were a travesty. Although my nerves were shot at that point
so, eating was not really a priority.
4) Staff: Professional and kind. The stories of nightmare proctors keep me
up at night before my first exam. All I can say is at RTP, the two guys I
had as proctors were great.
5) Time management: This is my downfall. I tried doing things faster this
time, but it ended up costing me more time fixing my mistakes.
6) Environment: Cold and DRY. I had to keep drinking to keep my mouth from
drying up. This caused frequent trips to the facilities. <grin>
7) Personal commitment: Well this has been a long year and we have two young
children. I think I'll take a short hiatus if I didn't get my number this
time around. I feel good about my performance, just not sure if it was
ENOUGH.

-- 
Shaun Gomez, CCNP ATSA ASP
Network Engineer
Blogs and organic groups at http://www.ccie.net