‘Refuse to settle for what doesn’t align with your true path’

The COVID-19 pandemic impacted everyone in one way or the other. Some found solace in cooking, some took to gardening and others took to playing online games, sparking a fascination for Artificial Intelligence (AI). This led this alumnus to transition from Biotechnology to Electrical and eventually settle into pursuing a career in Software Engineering.

Meet Shreyas Sharma, an Apeejay School, Pitampura alumnus, who at present, working as a Software Engineer with Cisco since August 2022. “The growth from a fresher to my present role has been both rewarding and enlightening, with continuous learning marking my professional journey,” Sharma said.

Excerpts from the interview:

Tell us about you and your work.

I am a person who loves to explore and dig into new things. Initially, when I developed some interest in game development, I began my career in software engineering. Post this, I joined Cisco as a fresher; I have been with this company since August 2022. The experience has been wonderful ever since. The work environment in this company in Bengaluru is truly amazing.

How has Apeejay School helped hone your skills?

Apeejay School surpassed my expectations, offering not just academics but also a pool of endless opportunities for exploration. Beyond the curriculum, I participated in Physical Education, providing a refreshing balance to my studies. The school not only equipped me with knowledge but also instilled valuable skills such as planning, execution, and bug resolution. This laid the foundation that guided me toward the right path.

What challenges did you face in your professional journey, and how did you overcome them?

My daily role involves resolving diverse bugs to ensure smooth processes, presenting constant challenges. The biggest hurdle was transitioning from Biotechnology to Electrical and finally settling down to pursuing Software Engineering during my third year. I would like to say that it has been a rollercoaster ride. But I am grateful that I did not give up and was able to handle it all.

Please mention some of the technologies you have been using.

I work with a variety of programming languages. Some of these include Python, TypeScript, and JavaScript to name a few.

Fond memories from your school days.

My active involvement in sports helped me win numerous medals and cherished memories. I still reminisce about the time when I used to get up, go to school, and gear up in tracksuits, engaging in Taekwondo sessions. I also made plenty of friends during sports events which remains a source of immense satisfaction, creating some fond memories from my school days..

Advice for present Apeejayites.

The post-school journey may seem like a straightforward road, but it becomes more challenging as you move ahead. Stay resilient, navigate the difficulties, and you will surely achieve your goals. Remember, it’s okay to change interests; just persevere and refuse to settle for what doesn’t align with your true path.