Embarking on a New Journey: From University to Career
Picture this scenario: you’ve just graduated from university, brimming with aspirations yet grappling with uncertainties. During your internships, a sense of bewilderment often accompanied you as you navigated the workplace without substantial support from preoccupied supervisors. This was the initial chapter of my professional voyage.
A Pivotal Moment in 1999
In 1999, I seized an opportunity to study business at San Jose State University through an exchange program during the peak of the dot-com era, when Cisco reigned as a top employer for many aspiring professionals.
An Unexpected Connection
While studying at San Jose State, I worked part-time as a lifeguard at the campus pool. It was there that I met Andrew, a regular visitor who worked at Cisco and often brought his son along. Our conversations blossomed into a meaningful connection. As my internship in France approached, Andrew suggested something transformative: “Have you considered doing an internship at Cisco?” This pivotal suggestion set my career on an entirely new trajectory!
The Launchpad: CSAP
Fast forward two years after completing my studies in Paris—I received encouragement from my internship supervisor to apply for the Cisco Sales Associates Program (CSAP). This program is meticulously crafted to nurture recent graduates into future leaders through extensive training and invaluable practical experiences.
I acted on that advice—applied, got accepted—and soon found myself in Amsterdam with the inaugural cohort of CSAP in EMEA!
The Impact of CSAP
An Exciting Start in Amsterdam
Arriving amidst Amsterdam’s typical rain but filled with enthusiasm for office work and classes marked by camaraderie was exhilarating. This chance felt like monumental achievement; I aimed to embrace it fully.
Beyond Academic Learning
The experience taught me that understanding business transcends traditional classroom education; CSAP promotes learning through real-life scenarios. We were privileged to connect with accomplished leaders and devoted mentors genuinely committed to our success who guided our development step by step.
Cultural Appreciation and Community Engagement
I learned not only professional skills but also how vital it is to appreciate diversity. Traveling across various countries allowed me to immerse myself in different cultures—an experience rich with life lessons that have shaped me profoundly over time.
Cisco has always prioritized community impact—it’s engrained within its values from day one. The lessons I absorbed during my year abroad remain invaluable; we frequently dedicated our free days towards initiatives like cleaning canals throughout Amsterdam alongside other community service activities.
Pursuing Passion Through Volunteering
TODAY SCULPTING A BRIGHTER FUture! I’m grateful for opportunities including volunteering as part of ocean coastguard duties owing largely due to Cisco’s Time2Give initiative—allowing employees additional paid time off solely for volunteer work!
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