Dear CareerBabe:

I have a liberal arts degree and got stuck in the secretarial rut ten years ago. Now, how can I transition into a career with advancement potential?

I have terrific computer skills, and provide technical support for my whole area. I know html and many web-related applications. I have experience in DOS, Windows, and Mac environments. How can I break out of secretarial work and into a high-tech job without a computer science degree?

Dear Marie:

First, if you know 'HTML' you are way ahead of the game. This is one skill that makes everyone, including MBA's, very marketable. Start talking to a career counselor to help you zero in on a specific field or several fields that interest you. By reading the paper, you can pick out jobs that interest you and then start researching those jobs. One thing that springs to mind is "Web design" . . . since you appear to have those skills.

Be aware that since you have already worked for 10 years, the one thing that stands out might be your salary requirements vis-a-vis new graduates. Remember, these "younger" folks will be your competition! So look and dress young when you interview!

Good Luck!