From Class 12 to a Software Engineer: My Journey at HCLTech

Dec 09, 2024

From Class 12 to a Software Engineer: My Journey at HCLTech

As a fresh-faced 12th-grade student, I stood at a crossroads like so many others, pondering what to do next. I knew I wanted a career in IT but wasn’t quite sure how to navigate the path. University seemed like the obvious choice, but four years of study before landing a job felt challenging. That’s when I came across the TechBee – HCL’s Early Career Program – a unique initiative that offered a perfect blend of work and education. Little did I know that this program would shape my career and set me on a fast track to becoming a Software Engineer at HCLTech.

The Start: Entering the TechBee Program

The TechBee program promised an accelerated journey into the world of IT, and I was immediately intrigued by the possibility of earning a salary while pursuing higher education. The idea of financial independence right after school was a significant motivator for me. The program focused on practical training, combining technical skills with workplace essentials like communication and teamwork. The first few months in the program were intense. We underwent a basic foundation training which included all core skills required in the IT world. I found myself balancing the new workload with my personal study routines, a challenge that pushed me to build a strong sense of discipline and time management. In those early days, the support system at HCLTech played a crucial role in my success. Whether it was guidance from experienced mentors or collaboration with my peers, I always felt like I had a network to fall back on. Juggling Work and Education: AMITY University Online

One of the key highlights of the TechBee program is the opportunity to pursue higher education while working full-time. Through a partnership with AMITY University Online, I enrolled myself in BCA program of the university, which allowed me to continue learning and expanding my knowledge base while working. The flexibility of online education was a lifesaver. AMITY’s online platform made it possible for me to attend classes and complete assignments at my own pace, without interfering with my professional responsibilities. Balancing work and education wasn’t always easy. There were times when deadlines at HCLTech coincided with my exam preparations, but the support from both sides made it manageable. My team at HCLTech was incredibly understanding, often allowing me to adjust my work hours to fit my study schedule. On the other hand, AMITY University’s online faculty was always available for consultations, which helped me stay on track even during busy work periods. This balancing act taught me invaluable time management skills and reinforced my ability to handle multiple responsibilities.

Work at HCLTech: A Real-World Experience

After completing the training, I started working full-time as a Software Engineer at HCLTech’s Lucknow office. My job involved collaborating with teams to develop software solutions for clients across various industries. The real-world exposure I received was unparalleled. I wasn’t just learning theory anymore; I was applying it to solve actual business problems. The hands-on experience helped me gain confidence in my technical abilities while honing soft skills like communication and teamwork. HCLTech provided numerous opportunities for growth and learning. From attending workshops to interacting with industry experts, I always had access to resources that helped me expand my knowledge. My managers were supportive, encouraging me to take on challenging projects and offering constructive feedback that helped me improve continuously.

A Strong Support System at HCLTech

One of the most remarkable aspects of my journey has been the support system within HCLTech. From day one, I was treated as a valued member of the team. The mentorship I received played a crucial role in shaping my career. Senior

engineers were always available to guide me, answer questions, and provide feedback on my work. There were regular check-ins, skill development sessions, which ensured that I remained motivated and focused.

Moreover, the company culture at HCLTech fosters collaboration and learning. It wasn’t just about completing tasks; it was about growing both personally and professionally. The company’s emphasis on continuous learning aligned perfectly with my desire to keep upgrading my skills, whether through online courses, certifications, or mentorship programs.

The Journey Ahead

Today, as a Software Engineer at HCLTech, I can confidently say that joining the TechBee program was one of the best decisions of my life. It provided me with a strong foundation in IT, financial independence, and a clear career path, all while allowing me to pursue higher education. The flexibility to learn, work, and grow at my own pace was something I hadn’t imagined possible before joining the program. Looking back, the journey from high school to becoming a Software Engineer has been filled with challenges, learning, and growth. The TechBee program not only gave me the technical skills required for the job but also shaped my personality and instilled in me a sense of confidence and independence. With HCLTech’s constant support and my education from AMITY University Online, I’m excited about the future and ready to take on new challenges in the ever-evolving world of technology.

In the end, the TechBee program didn’t just offer me a job; it offered me a career and a sense of purpose. I now look forward to the next milestones in my journey with HCLTech and beyond and now I can proudly say that I am a Software Engineer at HCLTech filled with enthusiasm and skills that a student gets in after completing four years of graduation.