For many, the path to their dream job seems straightforward: study what you love, graduate, and step into your chosen profession. In my case? Let’s just say it’s been more of a scenic route with a few plot twists along the way.
My Education
I’ve always been fascinated by computers and originally dreamed of studying Computer Science. Growing up, I imagined myself diving into the world of coding and technology, but back in 1998, that dream felt out of reach. Where I come from, college education is a significant financial burden for most families, and Computer Science was one of the most expensive programs to pursue. It required costly computer courses and access to equipment that simply wasn’t feasible for me or my family at the time.
Instead, I opted for Plan B: a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education. It was a more affordable path, with plenty of scholarships available in this field. While it wasn’t my first choice, it offered a practical solution to achieve a college degree. Still, I couldn’t quite let go of my tech dreams entirely, so I chose Computer Education as my major. It was the perfect compromise—a way to immerse myself in teaching while still dipping my toes into the world of technology.
Career Start
After graduating, I didn’t immediately head into the classroom. In my country, teaching isn’t exactly a high-paying profession, and with a strong desire to support myself and my future, I was driven by the need to earn more. So, I decided to take a different route and ventured into the corporate world. I landed a job as an HR Clerk, where my primary responsibility was data entry and managing employee records. But working at a medium-sized textile company meant I quickly learned to wear many hats.
In just three years, I transitioned through multiple departments—HR, Merchandising/Purchasing, and even Import/Export. Each move was a crash course in versatility, and I gained invaluable experience in everything from logistics to inventory management. I was often thrown into new roles on the fly, which meant adapting fast and learning even faster. To be honest, I might have stayed in that environment longer if the company hadn’t closed down. It was a wild ride, but it taught me a lot about flexibility, problem-solving, and the importance of constantly evolving.
Career Change
When the textile company closed, I took a bold leap and applied to teach abroad. I moved to China to work as a foreign language teacher, embarking on my first adventure far from home. It was both exhilarating and challenging—living independently in a completely new environment forced me to grow in ways I hadn’t expected. Those four years were filled with unforgettable experiences that left a lasting impact.
In 2009, life brought me to Austria, my husband’s home country, and with it came a fresh set of challenges: new language, new culture, and a completely different mindset. Professionally, I was lucky to find work quickly, teaching English at a private learning center. The job didn’t pay much, but it gave me a foothold in Austria’s job market and a glimpse into its work culture.
Career Break
Career Restart
As our kids grew older—our eldest now in Gymnasium and our youngest in Primary School—I realized it was time to rediscover myself outside of motherhood. I wanted a career that would challenge me, fuel my passion, and offer the balance I needed for my family.
So, I took a leap. In 2022, I decided to pursue my long-lost dream of working in IT. Returning to school wasn’t easy, but I dove into an intensive Software Engineering program, determined to make it work. The past two years were nothing short of a rollercoaster—juggling family life, coursework, and an internship at an IT company. There were sleepless nights, moments of doubt, and plenty of cookie-and-coffee-fueled study sessions.
In October 2024, I achieved something I once thought might be out of reach—I graduated with results that genuinely made all the hard work worth it. Now, with my diploma in hand and a fresh start ahead, I’m officially stepping into the world as a Software Developer, eager to embrace the challenges and opportunities of this exciting new chapter.
This isn’t just a career restart—it’s a reinvention. While I haven’t landed a job yet, I’m filled with excitement and determination as I take my first steps into this field. My journey might not have been straightforward, but every twist and turn has brought me here, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
So, here’s to new beginnings, to continuing to learn and grow, and to embracing the unknown with a little humor, some resilience, and a lot of heart. The next chapter is unwritten, and I can’t wait to see where it leads!