Case Studies

NAME : Sharon Martin   UNIVERSITY ATTENDEND : San Jose State University, San Jose, CA   DEGREE OBTAINED : BS Computer Science, Minor Mathematics   AGE : 25   JOB TITLE : Associate Systems Engineer (ASE)

 

As soon as I saw the job description for Associate Systems Engineer at Cisco Systems, I knew it was the career path I had been searching for. Coming from a background of software engineering internships, I was ready to take my career to the next level by beginning to leverage some of my other skill sets. I was attracted by the opportunity to work closely with 24 other engineers from around the United States while at the same time, fine tuning my sales, presentation, and technical skill set.

 

One of most difficult parts of becoming a successful engineer is being able to communicate technical concepts clearly, as well as effectively tailor them to your audience. Technical credibility is something that must be earned from each customer that you visit. The ASE program focused on improving not only my technical skills, but also my communication skills, which has largely contributed to my success in the field.

 

After joining the program, I was delighted to immediately witness the teamwork and leadership that formed among the ASEs. Being a part of an organization that is dedicated to your individual success and career growth is very exciting! The ASE program taught me to be a success by encouraging me to constantly challenge myself so that I might always be improving.

 

The most challenging part of the ASE program is learning how to conquer fear and doubt about what you may be able to accomplish. Becoming a confident, credible, brilliant engineer takes time and dedication, but is a goal that is certainly attainable. One of my favorite authors, Henry David Thoreau, sums it up nicely, “You Only Hit What You Aim At”.

After graduating from the ASEs program, we were all ready to take our next step as engineers in the field. I was hired in New York City, and was immediately able to make a positive impact in my region due to the skills and training I received in the ASE program. Each day I am at Cisco, doors open wider. It is exciting to work at a company which supports whichever path I may want to take in my career. I am encouraged to analyze my career goals so that I may explore other opportunities such as management, advanced technology, or even product development.

 

My advice to anyone joining the ASE program is to do something that you’re scared of everyday. Stretching yourself beyond your limitations is the only way to making yourself better!