It had always been my dream to work at a product-based company. And now that I am finally here, I can't help but look back at the years of tireless efforts that have gone into making this dream my reality.
Because of my ICSE background, I was introduced to computer applications in the 12th grade itself. This, alongside having an elder brother who’s a Computer Engineer, made CS the most logical option for me. And like that, my engineering journey began at Veer Surendra Sai University of Technology, Burla for a B.Tech degree.
Things were going well until I realized that a few specific questions and problems made me hesitant because I found them difficult and complex. Obviously, I could not hide from them for long. As placements neared, I knew I had to get a grip and upskill myself with the latest algorithms and technology. I was close to the end of my graduation with my dream career kick-starting - except I just wasn't prepared for it.
I had heard about many e-learning platforms that helped students with their programming skills and online coding. But I learned about Scaler in an email I received from Anshuman Singh himself.
The coursework aligned very well with what I wanted to learn. I knew right then and there that this was the best place for me to learn, grow, and upgrade my programming skills. This is why I gave the entrance exam twice before I cleared it on the third attempt. I am proud and grateful I took this determined decision, because taking the right decision at the right time was the key to my growth! My parents had some reservations about my wish to upskill and join Scaler but after explaining my dream of working at a product-based company, they supported me immensely and continue to do so!
When faced with complex coursework broken down into simplified and understandable ways, I finally started believing in myself. Due to the periodic tests, I worked on my time management and problem-solving skills under pressure. The mock interviews also helped me overcome the anxiety I felt which would only be a roadblock to doing my best in the
I have been rejected in placements more times than I can count, and it was really tough on me. However, I believe that constantly communicating these rejections with my mentor has helped me improve and prepare myself immensely. Instead of lamenting the rejection, I was advised to brainstorm with a paper and pen in hand and, thus, focus on my thought process behind solving a problem rather than the problem itself. This approach helped me a lot during the interview rounds. I was also fortunate enough to have an uber helpful community of learners around me who helped me out whenever I was stuck in my studies.
Currently, I am working at Spinny as a software engineer. Back when I was stuck and didn't know how to get to where I wanted to be in my career, a simple email showed me the way forward. Today very few engineering colleges provide what Scaler is doing to its students. I am sure that if it were not for my decision to upskill, I wouldn't have been able to keep myself updated with the skills necessary today.
I now get constant queries from juniors about how they can excel in their careers, and I'm proud that I was able to demonstrate such a caliber that they look up to me for guidance. However, this is just the beginning, and I wish to grow tremendously in my skill and work in a company as a Team Lead while getting challenged constantly. If you are a student of Scaler, I recommend you take full advantage of the faculty and mentors you have around you and watch yourself grow exponentially to set an example for others.
Connect with Watan Sahu on LinkedIn
