Have workded with computers for some years - and have built about 8 desktops over the years - know how to glue the parts together (not literally!) but dont define myself an expert.  Lately I have given up starting from scratch and tended to start with barebones or even built base units and upgrade them.  Run on a budget so cant always afford the best!

Workwise i manage an installation of the Blackboard virtual learning environment at a large university - I deal with the admin side of the software not the technical.