What certificates should I pursue or what title should I look for to be a computer support specialist

Hi,
I do not think you made a bad decision, I think this is a good learning experience for you...I work for a large computer company and was like you when I was younger...I started in programming, did not like it and ended up in computer sales after my time in the military and a few other jobs.
Jobs in computer support/repair can sometimes only require a certificate or 2 yr associates degree. I think you are on the right path with the Comp TIA certificate.Below is a link that has a lot of information about the computer support field...I would also recommend speaking with your adviser about your concerns.
http://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-support-specialists.htm

If you have some time for a p/t job or volunteering, look into being a tech support rep and spend a little time helping people resolve their computer problems to see if you like it...there are a lot of support jobs that are home based on done over the phone/remotely from your home.

Good luck!

Can you elaborate on the reason you want to be a computer support specialist? Do you know what the turnover rates are for these positions? My husband has done this kind of work and while there can be great satisfaction in it, there are also a lot of difficulties (e.g., high turnover, low employee morale due to high turnover, low pay compared to other IT jobs). Getting a degree simply opens doors - it does not dictate what you will or will not do. I would not disengage from getting a degree because you dislike the course material. The jobs a degree can get you into have very little to do with what you study in school (unfortunate, but true). What made you choose to enroll in the degree program you enrolled in?

Hi, Dario, I've been a Computer Support Specialist my whole career (18 years). It does pay good, but granted you will probably not make 6 figures, but if you love it you'll look forward to going into work everyday. I did phone support for 10 years and learned that even though I loved solving people's computer problems I hated being tied to a desk on the phone with back to back calls in my ear. I do Deskside Support now which I enjoy a lot more. But that's my persona, you may have the patience to be on the phone from 8 to 12 hours a day. I had enough after 10 years, but it was an excellent experience. As for the courses you are taking now, even though not 100% relavent to being a Computer Support Specialist, it is a good foundation. You don't use the networking side to much, but you need to understand it. Keep going for your CompTIA, but take only the tests of what you want to focus on. I have an Associate Degree and where my marketability lies is in Certifications. I wouldn't get paid any more if I got my Bachelor's. You'd be okay to get a Bachelor's, but what you really need is experience and Certs. If you have experience then focus on you Certs to get a job right after high school. For a Computer Support Specialist focus on Certs like Windows 7 or 8.1, Microsoft Office 2013, MCDST Certification. Learn how to troubleshoot Outlook, Network connectivity, both wired and wireless, installing software. Try not to do proprietary support, do work that gives you experience you can take anywhere. Also a lot of these types of jobs are in bigger cities, there are harder to come by in small towns, so keep that in mind. I hope this helps. Good Luck in your IT Career!

1. Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)

What is it? The CCNA is a lower-level certification that assures employers you are able to install, operate and configure enterprise level switches and routers. CCNA certified individuals can also detect and solve common network problems and have the option of specializing in security, voice or wireless networking.

Certification process: You can become CCNA certified by passing a single 90-minute written exam consisting of about 50-60 questions.

Most common job titles:

Network engineer
Network administrator
Systems administrator

1. CompTIA A+ Technician

What is it? CompTIA A+ is an entry-level certification and is a basic starting point for an IT career. Certified A+ technicians handle the maintenance of PCs, printers, operating systems, mobile devices and laptops.

Certification process: You must pass two exams in order to receive the CompTIA A+ certification — one multiple choice and one performance-based.

Most common job titles:

In-home support specialist
Desktop support technician
Help desk technician

1. Network+

What is it? Network+ is a globally recognized certification that verifies your ability to design, manage and troubleshoot wired and wireless networks.

Certification process: You must pass a single 90-question exam on the configuration of wired and wireless network devices and other emerging technologies.

Most common job titles:

Helpdesk technician
Information technology specialist
Information technology technician

1. Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

What is it? CISSP is a globally recognized credential verifying information security competency in order to protect organizations from attack. The credential proves extensive technical and managerial abilities to engineer and manage information security programs.

Certification process: The CISSP exam covers eight subjects: security and risk management, asset security, security engineering, communications and network security, identity and access management, security assessment and testing, security operations and software development security. The exam contains 250 questions, takes around six hours to complete.

Most common job titles:

Information technology auditor
Security analyst
Information security analyst

1. Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE)

What is it? The MCSE is a mid-level certification that validates an individual’s ability to build innovative solutions across multiple technologies. MCSE certification is offered in the following specializations: server infrastructure, desktop infrastructure, private cloud, enterprise devices and apps, data platform, business intelligence, messaging, communication and SharePoint.

Certification process: The steps to become certified will vary depending on your preferred concentration, but the exam is a five-step process that incorporates various question formats such as multiple choice, drag-and-drop and simulation problems.

Most common job titles:

Systems administrator
Field systems technician
Systems engineer

A+ is probably the most relevant. However, any of the Microsoft ones are good as well. Security+ is a good introduction to security concepts but it can be a bit out of date sometimes.