“Growing up in Betul, Madhya Pradesh, my childhood was filled with love and laughter. While I initially struggled with studies, my family’s lessons in kindness and resilience motivated me to strive for excellence. Transitioning from an average student to a class topper in high school and beyond showcased the importance of dreaming big.
Choosing engineering wasn’t my first instinct, but my father’s suggestion led me to pursue computer science. With determination and perseverance, I cracked the GATE exam and earned a spot at NIT Allahabad for my MTech. Despite encountering obstacles, the unwavering support from my family propelled me forward, eventually landing me positions at reputable companies like Qualcomm and PayPal.
At PayPal, my journey as a software developer was shaped by continuous learning and dedication. Embracing challenges and staying adaptable, I encourage others in the IT field to do the same.
Travel became my refuge, offering moments of reflection and balance amidst work life. Experiences like exploring the serene beauty of Himalayas, Ooty and Coimbatore left a lasting impression, providing much-needed rejuvenation, and spiritual awareness.
My most significant challenge was overcoming self-doubt and fear of failure. When I was at Qualcomm, I had a bad incident and my leg got plastered; I was not able to walk. I am a person who cannot sit in a single place because I like to roam around. But due to the plaster, I could not walk, and I was alone away from home in Hyderabad. I was very demotivated, and even my work was getting affected. With that pain, I went to my hometown, and there, my parents helped me heal. After a few months, everything became better than before. This was all due to my parents’ support; they always believed in me, which motivated me to work harder and achieve big. Through resilience and unwavering determination, I conquered my inner demons and emerged stronger than ever.
Prioritizing self-care and mental well-being amidst the hustle is essential. Whether through mindfulness practices or connecting with nature, nurturing the soul remains a priority.
A significant milestone in my journey was my experience with LinkedIn, gaining approximately 60k followers in just 3 months. Sharing my insights and opinions on tech topics, along with launching a mentorship program, has been immensely fulfilling. Empowering others to pursue their passions and break barriers in the industry is a cause close to my heart.
To those pursuing their dreams, I say believe in yourself, stay resilient in the face of adversity, and never lose sight of your dreams. Remember, the journey may be challenging, but the destination is worth every step.”
- Palak Awasthi, Software Developer, Mentor