She managed to build two different careers, spent two years in Spain, researched the topic of "Hegemony in theory and practice of international relations", so that later worn convenient Converses and sought to reform Ukrainian education sector. At the age of 30, Mariya Puriy exchanged steady employment as the regional director of the network of English language training centers and academic activities for training in the EPAM BA laboratory. She had a fear of starting all over again, but an even greater one of not trying at all.
We talked to Mariya Puriy, EPAM BA Analyst, about the mission, challenges, and what helped her become one of the nine lab graduates who joined the company after their studies.
Life before IT
Before 2019, my interests laid in academic education, international relations, and geopolitics. At the same time, I worked at the Helen Doron English language school for children. Although it was a rewarding job, some parts of it were difficult: you ought to be detached yet cheerful, a leader and a colleague simultaneously. I started there as a teacher; a year and a half later, I got promoted to a senior position, and after that I became a network coordinator of the western region. It was my responsibility to search, select, support, and motivate teachers – down to the smallest details.
Later I went to Spain for two years because I received a grant to study in a graduate school. My research topic was fascinating, I made many good acquaintances, and, overall, it was an incredible experience despite a lot of confusion and bureaucracy surrounding my arrival.
I have never had any desire to stay abroad
Upon my return, I was offered a job at the university. I wasn't seeking money but wholeheartedly wanted to change the education system in Ukraine. I did my best but eventually I realized that old ways die hard. “It’s not up to you, in your Converses, to change the system. Don’t stand out,” they told me. Regrettably, I was not able to do everything I had planned. Still, I am glad that I took that opportunity – even if that led to understanding that teaching was not my thing.
I also returned to Helen Doron as a director of network development. I loved my job, strived for growth, and often challenged myself to do more. At some point, I realized that I was stalling. Some people like to work in a comfort zone – and that's okay, but that wasn't an option for me. Development, continuous learning, and fulfillment are my priorities, so, I started looking for a career where all these would be within reach.
I had many acquaintances from IT who advised me to take a closer look at this industry, saying it would surely meet my requirements. My first choice was the profession of Project Manager, which I started to study on a couple of courses. I liked it, but even at the time I felt that I lacked technical knowledge. However, I wasn't discouraged and continued to advance – which later led me to the EPAM’s “IT for non-IT” event. There I unexpectedly discovered the role of BA. Six months later, I found out about the enrollment for the BA course, so I decided to register. I've passed CV screening, English, and logic tests – and that’s when training started in its earnest.
About 380 candidates were competing for 20 places in the laboratory
For online technical trainings we used the Grow platform. Only 20 students got to the laboratory based on the results of studying. It was a very exciting time; each lesson was so incredibly motivating: we were divided into teams and each one had to prepare their project and present it by the end of the training. Since the project fields were so different ranging from fintech to retail it was interesting to see how the same basic knowledge was applied in various areas. EPAM’s professionals conducted workshops; each one of them was dedicated to a distinct specialization and reflected their own set of skills, which they transferred to students working on practical tasks. After graduation, the best students were invited for interviews. A week and a half later, a few days before the start of quarantine, I was already working on the EPAM project.
I like my job, but I do have some doubting from time to time
I guess there is yet to be a person who switched to IT and never thought: “At my age, I really should have done some bigger achievements. And here I am, a long way from being a pro.” This kind of perfectionism is actually the biggest barrier for those changing their profession. I dedicated 10 years to my previous workplace, I liked my job, it gave me a sense of fulfillment but unfortunately, there was no room for me to grow. Now I need to start from scratch, and it is unclear what happens next.
I must confess: I had my doubts about whether or not will I be disappointed in a six months and whether the transition would be stressful. But now I can say with certainty: it was worth a try. EPAM offers the opportunities for the development, learning, self-actualization I have been looking for. I do not regret my choice in the slightest and I am proud that I have mustered up to move into IT.
What helped in the process of switching over to IT?
First, you should not cherish any hopes that the training is going to be easy. A person only develops as long as they are ready to do everything to achieve the goal. So-called “switchers” are definitely better off starting in the EPAM Laboratory: they are provided with materials to read, listen, and watch, and, most importantly, get access to expert advice and guidance. And then it is up to them whether they'll leap at the chance.
Self-motivation is another crucial component of success. I have always been encouraged by my family’s credo: “No one owes me nothing. I am responsible for my well-being, successes, and failures. If I want to be successful, I must take the responsibility.”
In terms of practical advice, take note of:
- EPAM’s portals, such as Grow & Learn. They are pretty easy to use: you go item by item to identify weak spots at your knowledge and get recommendations of what to work with. It is also a good idea to consult with a manager who will point you towards more precise direction.
- Mentoring program. After I had worked at EPAM for 5 months, I decided to move up to the Middle level. The transition went easier due to the help of a mentor: she helped me to identify areas where I was lacking understanding which allowed me to focus my efforts meaningfully.
- Fluent English. It increases the chances to master the area faster. Moreover, all the best professional resources are written in English, and while you wait for their translation the value of knowledge will be constantly dwindling.
- People who surround you. These are the people who help you by showing you with their example what constant development can bring you to.
- Advanced soft skills. They involve the ability to get in tune with other people, listen actively, and be respectful of others. Here is where my previous experience came in handy.
On the BA mission
Everyone is happy and fulfilled – meaning, the client’s expectations were met and exceeded. Next, the aim is to make the team – developers, testers, other team members – feel satisfied, show them that their work is appreciated.
Typical difficulties? Well, there are lots of meetings, especially now that we work from home. Instead of walking up to a colleague and resolving an issue in a minute (as we used to in the office), you need to communicate it and wait for the response. That's why Teams, Skype, and e-mail of a BA specialist are never silent. Secondly, the role of the BA may be vague since it is often understood differently. To avoid misunderstandings, it is important to define your responsibilities on the project right from the start.
