Chapter 1: My Journey into Tech

Have you ever wondered how individuals secure jobs in technology immediately after graduating? Many people assume it’s due to their Computer Science degree, prior programming classes, or internships that led to full-time offers. I shared this curiosity, hoping to find a fulfilling position with a decent salary, all without needing to code or become a programmer.

At first, this seemed like an unrealistic dream. So, how did I manage to break into the tech industry, and how can you do the same? Let’s rewind to the start of my journey.

During my sophomore year at university, I met with my academic advisor to discuss my major and focus areas. I was fortunate enough to create a degree that encompassed my diverse interests. I had always envisioned a career involving international travel, so I chose to major in International Business. Coupled with my ongoing fascination with technology (and a bit of encouragement from my parents), I opted for Business Computer Information Systems as my concentration.

This may sound straightforward, but it was anything but easy. My introductory course for this concentration turned out to be the toughest class I faced throughout my undergraduate studies. My inexperience with the subject matter left me struggling to keep up, which was concerning since this concentration accounted for 40% of my degree.

I was required to take challenging courses like Web Development, Database Applications, and Object-Oriented Programming for Business — and I was failing miserably.

Photo by Elisa Ventur on Unsplash

Everything changed when I attended my first Business Policy and Basic Information Systems class. To my surprise, the instructors managed to connect and clarify the relationship between Business and Technology. This marked the beginning of my exploration into crucial concepts such as Strategic Management, Continuous Improvement, and Business Process Analysis.

But what do these concepts entail, and how do they connect to technology?

Businesses rely on strategic planning to identify gaps and opportunities for improvement before introducing any new technological advancements. This process requires a thorough analysis of the company's existing systems and practices to outline a pathway toward future objectives.

Imagine you are an interior designer tasked with creating a bedroom. You may have a vision for the finished product, but you know that foundational steps must be completed first, such as painting, acquiring furniture, and ensuring adequate lighting. Once these essentials are in place, you can further enhance the space with decorative elements.

Now, suppose your manager has specific requirements for the bedroom design. Instead of a standard ceiling light, they prefer a chandelier to brighten the room. However, given the age of the house, the ceiling can't support it. You might suggest replacing the ceiling fixture with a large floor lamp instead, and your manager agrees. This scenario mirrors the essence of Business Analysis — understanding existing systems and exploring feasible alternatives.

In my first post-college position at an IT consulting firm, I worked as a Business Analyst. My role involved analyzing the current systems of businesses and defining solutions to move them from point A to point B.

Did I have any relevant experience before landing this job?

Not at all! I learned everything on the job.

Was it challenging?

Absolutely! My prior work experience was limited to part-time roles in tech sales and IT support at a university, which primarily involved following set procedures to address issues reactively. In contrast, as a Business Analyst, my work was proactive—identifying potential problems and devising solutions before they arose.

So, how did I secure a job in tech right after graduation?

I capitalized on my skills from tech sales, IT support, and extracurricular activities to present myself as a strong candidate—no additional certifications or coding experience needed.

To help you prepare for similar roles, here are some of my favorite short, free courses in Business Analysis and Process Improvement:

• Business Analysis & Process Management on Coursera
• What is Business Analysis for Information Technology (IT) on Udemy
• Business Analysis, Business Intelligence Analysis Course 2022 on Udemy

What role do I hold now?

Following my initial experience as a Business Analyst, I sought to deepen my understanding of the systems utilized by companies. This led to my current position as a Systems Support Analyst, which builds upon my previous role and includes responsibilities like driving process improvements, troubleshooting system issues, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to implement solutions.

Chapter 2: Essential Resources for Aspiring Tech Professionals

Learn how to effectively land your first job after college, even with no prior experience. This video provides valuable insights and practical advice.

Discover essential tips and strategies for securing your first position in the tech industry. This video is a must-watch for new graduates.