Self-Learned Certification Cost Me RiseUp Opportunity – Any Suggestions?

[Choudharyma]

Hi everyone,

I’m looking for some guidance from the ServiceNow community.

I was recently selected for the RiseUp with ServiceNow program, but my offer was rescinded because I hold an active mainline certification. I completely respect the eligibility criteria, but I wanted to share that I achieved my certification purely through self-learning, without any formal training or structured program.

My intention in applying was to gain hands-on experience, mentorship, and real-world exposure — areas where I still feel I need guidance despite being certified.

I truly don’t want to miss this opportunity, so I’m reaching out to ask:

• Has anyone faced a similar situation?

• Is there any way to request reconsideration or exception?

• Are there alternative programs or pathways within the ServiceNow ecosystem that I should explore?

Any advice, guidance, or connections would mean a lot to me.

Thank you in advance for your support 

[Choudharyma]

Hi Dr. Atul,

Thank you so much for your detailed guidance and encouragement—it really means a lot.

I completely agree with your point about building a strong foundation and continuously learning. I am currently focusing on gaining more hands-on experience and exploring modules like ITSM and GRC, along with improving my scripting skills.

I will definitely follow your advice of engaging more with the ServiceNow Community and practicing regularly. Also, I’ll check out your YouTube channel for additional learning.

Thank you again for your support and guidance!

[Tanushree Maiti]

Hi @Choudharyma 

Since you are looking to gain hands-on experience and real-world exposure despite being certified, consider these path:

• Utilize Community Resources:
• Personal Developer Instance (PDI): Join the ServiceNow developer program to get a free, fully functional environment to practice troubleshooting and development.
• ServiceNow University: Access structured lessons and certification preparation courses on the NOW learning portal/ServiceNow University.
• ServiceNow Community Participation: Actively answer questions and read posts within the community to build confidence and practical knowledge. 

                           - Ask technical questions

                           - Share what you’re building

                           - Connect with architects/experts

• Networking: Engage with the official ServiceNow community forums and LinkedIn groups to connect with  industry professionals
• Follow Career journey Path for further grow (role wise) in your ServiceNow project
• Build Technical Foundations: Focus on mastering ITSM (IT Service Management) processes, including incident, problem, and change management. Complete course : IT Service Management (ITSM) Fundamentals 

• Next-level certifications (strategic, not just more certs)

  Instead of stacking random certs, go for:

  • CAD (if you don’t already have it)
  • CIS (specializations like ITSM, HRSD, etc.)

[Tanushree Maiti]

Hi @Choudharyma 

Since you are looking to gain hands-on experience and real-world exposure despite being certified, consider these path:

• Utilize Community Resources:
• Personal Developer Instance (PDI): Join the ServiceNow developer program to get a free, fully functional environment to practice troubleshooting and development.
• ServiceNow University: Access structured lessons and certification preparation courses on the NOW learning portal/ServiceNow University.
• ServiceNow Community Participation: Actively answer questions and read posts within the community to build confidence and practical knowledge. 

                           - Ask technical questions

                           - Share what you’re building

                           - Connect with architects/experts

• Networking: Engage with the official ServiceNow community forums and LinkedIn groups to connect with  industry professionals
• Follow Career journey Path for further grow (role wise) in your ServiceNow project
• Build Technical Foundations: Focus on mastering ITSM (IT Service Management) processes, including incident, problem, and change management. Complete course : IT Service Management (ITSM) Fundamentals 

• Next-level certifications (strategic, not just more certs)

  Instead of stacking random certs, go for:

  • CAD (if you don’t already have it)
  • CIS (specializations like ITSM, HRSD, etc.)

[Choudharyma]

Hi Tanushree,

Thank you so much for your detailed suggestions and guidance—I truly appreciate you taking the time to share this.

I have already completed my CSA certification and am currently focusing on gaining more hands-on experience using my PDI. I’m also trying to be more active in the ServiceNow Community by learning from discussions and planning to start contributing as well.

Your advice on following a structured path and focusing on the right certifications like CAD/CIS really helps me plan my next steps more clearly.

Thanks again for your support!