College Experiences That Helped A Senior Technical Program Manager At Microsoft Succeed
Kartik, a Senior Technical Program Manager at Microsoft, emphasizes the significant role extracurricular involvement played in career success, stating that joining clubs like the American Society of Civil Engineers "built a network that's gonna carry you for the rest of your career." This networking, he explains, led to unforeseen opportunities, including roles created specifically because of existing relationships, highlighting the importance of building connections during undergraduate studies.
Networking, Teamwork, Project Management, Career Development, Communication
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Kartik Atyam
Senior Technical Program Manager
Microsoft
UCLA
UC Berkeley
Engineering - Civil
Architecture, Construction & Design, Technology
Real Estate
Scholarship Recipient, Took Out Loans, Worked 20+ Hours in School, First Generation College Student
Video Highlights
1. Join clubs and professional organizations to build a strong network. This network will be invaluable throughout your career, leading to opportunities you might not otherwise find.
2. Learn to work effectively in groups through projects and collaborations. This is a crucial skill for success in many professional settings.
3. Networking is key to career advancement. Don't just rely on posted job openings; leverage your network to find and create opportunities that align with your interests and skills.
Transcript
What did you do in undergrad to set you up for success in your career?
The things I found most valuable were joining clubs and professional organizations. For example, I joined the American Society of Civil Engineers at UCLA, and I loved my time there. I made so many good friends.
The reason for joining is twofold. First, you learn to work in groups and do projects, and it's a ton of fun. Second, you build a network, and that network is what will carry you for the rest of your career.
I stay in touch with some of those folks, as well as others from schools and clubs I've been involved in. These are the partnerships you have for your entire career.
As you get older and gain more experience, you don't just look for posted roles to find your next job; you do it through your network. It makes a world of difference. I've had opportunities where people create a role because they like working with me.
These roles are often something I'm interested in and something they need, but formed in a different way. That would not have been possible without the network. So, joining clubs and being part of those communities are the most important parts of your undergrad career.