International career journey of PL/SQL Developer

Nitya’s journey into the world of technology is a testament to her unwavering determination and courage to pursue her dreams. Originally from India, she began her professional career as a .NET developer, navigating through a dynamic landscape before taking a bold step to pursue a Master’s degree in Computer Science in the UK. Her journey to becoming a PL/SQL developer at Infotel UK is not just a professional progression but a narrative of resilience and adaptability in the face of challenges, including navigating through the intricacies of working part-time on a student visa.

What did you do before joining Infotel UK?

Hello, I’m Nitya James, originally from India. I am currently working as a PL/SQL developer at Infotel UK Consulting. My journey before joining Infotel UK has been an exciting and purposeful one. I completed my bachelor’s in Computer science and Engineering from India. Opting for the Computer Science branch, I began my professional journey as a .NET developer after a successful campus placement. Over the next nine years, I immersed myself in the world of .NET development, continuously learning and growing in the dynamic IT landscape. My exposure to databases during this period sparked an interest, unknowingly paving the way for a unique opportunity in the future.

Driven by a long-standing dream, I took a bold step after having a stable career in India – pursuing my Master’s abroad. Despite mixed reactions, I left my job and moved to the UK for my master’s in information science (Data Analytics) at Northumbria University, Newcastle Upon Tyne.

Determined to find an IT job in the UK, I faced the challenges head-on. Eventually, my perseverance paid off, and I landed a position at Infotel UK Consulting as a PL/SQL developer. This role marked a new chapter in my career, aligning to learn new every day while working with databases and leveraging my extensive experience in the IT domain.

What made you choose Infotel UK?

During my tenure in the UK on a Student Visa, I had restrictions on the number of hours I could work till I complete my master’s degree. Navigating through this regulatory constraint proved to be a formidable obstacle in securing a part-time employment (while pursuing my Master’s) within the competitive landscape of the IT sector.

One day, when I was least expecting it, I received a mail from the recruiter at Infotel UK consulting regarding an opening for a PL/SQL developer. I explained the recruiter on my work restrictions and they after discussing with management told me there were no issues to hire a student on part time basis and were willing to go ahead with the recruitment process. Their willingness to proceed with the recruitment process demonstrated a commendable flexibility and understanding of unique circumstances.

Infotel exhibited an exemplary commitment to addressing my specific situation by collaboratively planning my working hours in consultation with me. This proactive approach ensured a seamless integration of my professional responsibilities without compromising any academic commitments. I am forever grateful to Infotel for giving me a chance to prove myself and most importantly helping me balance my studies and work in a wonderful and systematic manner. Infotel holds a special place in my life and a great example for other employers too.

The recruitment process

The recruitment process was smooth. I had an initial discussion with the recruiter about Infotel, myself and regarding the position for which I was being considered. Katie explained me about the recruitment process. I had a technical interview with junior PL/SQL developer, followed by another technical interview with senior database developer. The final round was with Operations manager. Finally, I had a discussion with the internal recruiter regarding my job offer, salary expectations and my joining date. HR team was guiding me very well at each stage and so definitely was quite smooth for me.

How would you describe your daily work as a developer?

At Infotel UK, each day commences with meticulous planning, prioritising tasks to address the highest-priority items promptly. This practice sets the tone for a productive day ahead. Following this, a pivotal standup meeting with my team and clients ensues, fostering effective communication and alignment on project objectives. Apart from that, every day is different and has its own set of new challenges. At Infotel, we work as a team and focus on getting the issues sorted. Collaboration is key in a PL/SQL development environment, and I work closely with my team, database administrators and other stakeholders to integrate database functionalities seamlessly into the larger application framework. Beyond the day-to-day tasks, I allocate time to enhance my professional proficiency. This involves self-directed study and participation in relevant online courses, allowing me to stay abreast of industry advancements and continuously refine my skills.

A word to others like me

The road to success in tech, as in any field, requires dedication and hard work. Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and be persistent in the face of setbacks. Your determination will be a driving force in overcoming obstacles and achieving your aspirations. As women in tech, never underestimate the power of your dreams. Set audacious goals and envision the impact you can make in the world of technology. Your dreams are the compass guiding you toward a future where your contributions can shape and redefine the industry.

Technology is ever evolving, and staying up-to date is essential. Embrace a mindset of continuous learning. Explore new technologies, attend conferences, networking events, and engage in professional development opportunities. Your commitment to learning will keep you at the forefront of industry trends. In the end, always stay prepared because you never know when a valuable opportunity might present itself. Maintain a proactive stance, be vigilant, and be ready to seize the opportunities that have the potential to influence the course of your journey.