Ewa Szczepska, a psychology graduate with experience in HR and marketing, found her true calling in .NET development and launched a successful IT career with EPAM Campus in Poland. Her story is both captivating and inspiring, offering practical career advice for beginners and seasoned professionals alike. Here’s her story in her own words.
From psychology to programming: choosing a tech stack
My first education was not related to technology. Nevertheless, I decided to connect my professional life with software development. I was interested in coding during my teenage years and even studied HTML and CSS in school. However, later I chose psychology, earning a master’s degree in the field, and began a career in marketing and HR, as well as participating in a research project. Then, my life took a sharp turn, and due to personal circumstances, I relocated to Saudi Arabia — it was a movement that gave me some much-needed free time to focus on education and revisit programming.
The decision to switch to .NET development was inspired by a close friend in the UK who had successfully transitioned into the field. She guided me through the initial steps of my career restart. At first, I doubted my decision and abilities but I’ve come to understand that the common belief in “logical” versus “humanitarian” brain types is a myth. Anyone can learn anything developed by another human being — it’s all about motivation and interest.
I chose .NET for its versatility. It works seamlessly on macOS and Linux, in addition to Windows, and allows the development of diverse applications, including desktop, web, and mobile solutions. While .NET might not be ideal for every use case, it offers ample opportunities for beginners to get started quickly, seeing immediate results while preparing for more advanced challenges.
Learning with EPAM Campus
While searching for internship or employment opportunities in various countries, I discovered the EPAM Campus training programs. Initially, I found programs in Hungary but later came across similar options in Poland. The structured and comprehensive curriculum immediately appealed to me. It provided hands-on experience guided by experienced mentors — exactly the learning environment I was looking for.
I was also confident in EPAM’s extensive expertise in software development and knew I could learn from industry professionals. I applied for the most advanced stage of the program, Specialization, and was thrilled to be accepted.
If I were to describe my learning experience in one word, it would be intense! The program was highly structured, with tight deadlines that required significant effort. However, the individual mentorship aspect was invaluable. Each student was paired with a seasoned expert who guided them throughout the program, sharing practical insights and best practices.
My mentor provided real-world examples, helping me understand how different methodologies and team dynamics influence the success of projects. Thanks to the program, I was able to join the EPAM team just two months after starting my training.
How to effectively organize your time during intensive learning
I learned the importance of time management when I balanced my studies with three jobs. The structured nature of the EPAM Campus allowed me to prioritize and balance mandatory and optional tasks.
My top time management techniques include:
- Pomodoro Technique: Break tasks into focused intervals to maintain concentration. When stuck, take a short break or switch activities to refresh your perspective.
- Task Lists: Break tasks into manageable 10-minute chunks and check them off as you complete them. This keeps you motivated with a sense of daily progress.
- Focus on Your Goals: Always remember why you started and keep your long-term objectives in mind.
How background and previous experience can help in a new role
My HR experience was especially helpful during project interviews. Having been an interviewer myself, I understand that interviews are not exams but rather a process to find the right fit. As for psychology, it has greatly enhanced my understanding of team dynamics and communication. Knowing how to ask the right questions and adapt to different communication styles has made collaboration much smoother — a crucial skill for any developer.
About work-life balance and well-being
I mix various activities to stay refreshed. Music, particularly playing the violin, has always been important to me, and I’ve recently taken up sewing as a creative outlet. I also enjoy video games and walking my dog. Remote work has been a game-changer saving me hours for commuting and allowing for a healthier work-life balance.
Resources for beginners in .NET development recommended by Ewa
- Tim Corey’s YouTube channel
- Codewrinkles (YouTube)
- Nick Chapsas (YouTube)
- Mohamad Lawand (YouTube)
And surely official .NET documentation — boring but invaluable
Tips to maximize the learning experience:
- Block 5 or 15 minutes on your calendar and treat it as a meeting with someone you greatly respect. You should not miss or be late for this meeting. This person is yourself and this time is set for you to learn.
- Don’t be too harsh on yourself, but make sure to do something regularly. Every small step brings you closer to your goal, and even small tasks done daily will get you further than burning yourself out with long, 8-hour sessions on weekends.
- If you’re stuck or lack motivation, try working on different types of projects outside your usual focus. This can introduce new challenges and keep learning fresh and engaging. However, be cautious not to jump to new projects too quickly without finishing what you've started.
- Remember why you started this journey and keep your long-term goals in mind.
Tips for excelling in job interviews:
- Prepare Thoroughly: Research the company and the role, and review potential interview questions.
- Ask Questions: Show your interest and ensure you don’t forget important details due to nerves.
- Study Company Culture: Aligning your values with the company’s culture can help you stand out as a good fit.
- Stay Relaxed: Remember, interviews are conversations. Approach them with confidence.
- Be Honest: If you don’t know an answer, admit it and explain how you’d approach finding a solution.
If you are eager to learn .NET Development for free then check on open opportunities at EPAM Campus!
