Regarding the trip... my Dad (who at one time was a truck driver) had a rule of thumb: subtract your starting time from your finishing time, multiply by 60 mph, and that's how far you'll get in a day. His theory was, if you're driving at highway speeds, then with stops for food, bathroom breaks, etc. you can figure on averaging 60 miles per each hour from start to finish. I've done a lot of driving between Texas and Michigan since then, and even though most of it was on Interstates with a limit of 70 mph (and I drove a little over that) we still only averaged about 60 mph over the course of the day. So, if you start at 8 am and finish at 8 pm, figure on getting about 780 miles driven.
Regarding the Network+ cert, I would say yes it is worth getting. Lots of employers look at certs now the way they used to look at college degrees: proof of competency. But... if you're not going to let your current job reimburse you for it, then I don't know if it's worth spending your own money on. You may want that money for the move before all is said and done.
As for the reimbursement, I would take it. Consider it a benefit of your current position; if you had passed the test six months ago, would you even consider not taking the reimbursement?
As for the reimbursement, I would take it. Consider it a benefit of your current position; if you had passed the test six months ago, would you even consider not taking the reimbursement?Well...no...but in this case, it'd kinda feel like I'm sayin' "Thanks for the handout, goodbye!"
Not like I've been overpaid here, but...