Omo, if you’re reading this, chances are you’re where I was a few months ago — scrolling through job sites,

upskilling like mad, maybe even collecting certifications, but still hearing crickets.

Omo, if you’re reading this, chances are you’re where I was a few months ago — scrolling

through job sites,upskilling like mad, maybe even collecting certifications,

but still hearing crickets.

The Lagos hustle is real, and sometimes it feels like you’re doing everything right, but nothing is clicking.

I get it. I was there — stuck, frustrated, and unsure of what to do next.

But today, I’m writing this as an AWS Certified Solutions Architect Associate,
and I did it on my first attempt, right here in Lagos.

This isn’t going to be one of those generic guides. It’s my real, honest roadmap.

If I can do it while juggling life in Lagos, you definitely can too.

Why I Chose AWS in the First Place

Honestly? I was tired of the local job market. I needed a skill that was

global — something in demand both remotely and internationally.

After researching, one thing became clear:
Cloud computing is the future, and Amazon Web Services (AWS) is the leader.

So, I made the decision to go all in.

My Study Plan: Balancing Learning with Lagos Life

Finding time and energy in Lagos is a challenge. Between traffic, work, and NEPA,

you really have to plan intentionally.

Here’s how I made it work:

 

• Duration: I gave myself 3 focused months — not too long to burn out, not too short to rush.

 

• Daily Study Goal: 2–3 hours on weekdays. 4 hours on Saturdays.

 

• Routine: I sometimes woke by 5 AM to study before the city came alive. Other days,
  I stayed up late — hoping NEPA wouldn’t fail me.

 

• Key tip: Be consistent, not perfect.

My Top 3 Resources (You Need These)

There are tons of AWS resources online. These are the 3 that worked for me:

 

1. 1. Stephane Maarek’s AWS Udemy Course

Hands down the best. Stephane breaks down complex topics so well.
Tip: Wait for Udemy sales — you can grab it under ₦10,000!

 

2. 2. Jon Bonso’s Practice Exams

Do. Not. Skip. These.
They’re harder than the real exam, but reviewing each answer taught me so much.

 

3. 3. AWS Free Tier

I signed up for hands-on labs via Stephane’s course.
Reminder: Set a billing alarm to avoid surprise charges.

That’s it. No need to buy everything under the sun. These three are gold.

The Exam Day Experience (Lagos Style)

I booked my exam at a test center on the Island.

I arrived super early — because Lagos traffic can shock you.

Must-haves:

 

• Valid ID (National ID, Passport, or Driver’s License)

 

• Light sweater (those rooms are freezing!)

The exam was 130 minutes of deep focus.

I flagged confusing questions and reviewed them at the end.

After submitting, It took about 10 hours, and then came the email.
PASS.

“I didn’t get my result instantly. It took about 10 hours before I got the result via email — and yes, 

it was the PASS I had been hoping for!”

Omo, that moment? Unforgettable. All the stress, early mornings,

and late nights became worth it.

Final Words: You Can Do This Too

I’m not a genius. Just a regular Lagos girl who
chose to bet on herself.

This certification has already opened doors — and it’s just the beginning.

So please, stop doubting. Don’t get lost in a sea of resources.
Just follow this plan, stay consistent, and you’ll be writing your own success story soon.

Connect with Me on LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/gloria-ejike-045081234

Your certification is closer than you think – start now.