Personally, I'm going to college for a BS in Computer science with a minor in information technology. I am also a Cisco Certified Network Professional (and Network Associate; CCNP and CCNA respectively). I can say that the certifications have helped to raise my pay at my current job, but as a college student people only really look at my grades and number of credits at this point, which is unfortunate.

I actually like to take certifications just to set goals for my professional development, not so much to make more money. My next certification will most likely be the MCSE.

Regards,
Wizeman