August 22, 2024
Today people know Alok Kashyap as a successful scrum master and an entrepreneur living his dream life, but this dream has been achieved with the continual hustle and the work that I have put in over the years. Imagine a kid coming from a small city in India weaving dreams in the vibrant shade of the tech world in the USA, it seems like a long road to follow. So let me take you on this journey and share the story of a dreamer to a doer, and how I transcended ideas into action, to build a tech career in the USA. Moreover, some insights and understanding on how it may interest you if you want to achieve the same.
A solid academic background is essential to establishing a profession, whether in the United States or another nation. Speaking for myself, when I was in my first semester at IIT Delhi I thought of studying abroad and dropped out. I took all the exams to get into a prestigious college outside India like SAT, MIT, etc, and also got selected but as I came from a middle-class family I needed a college offering a scholarship. Finally, Illinois Chicago was offering me 95% scholarship so I decided to go with it. I have since earned a Bachelor of Science (B.S.), in Computer Engineering from Illinois Institute of Technology, USA, and a Master of Science (MS), in Information Technology Project Management from DePaul University Jarvis College of Computing and Digital Media.
Many obstacles have been encountered along the way that have molded me into the Alok Kashyap I am today – a version of myself in which I take great pride.
I started my professional career in 2009 as an Intermediate Business & Programmer Analyst. Now, in 2023, after almost fourteen years of continuous learning, and effort, I am employed as a project manager at United Airlines, a testament to my dedication and hard work.
My strategy was to finish my undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in the United States. However, other people would rather remain in their native country and finish their educational pursuits there. Employer sponsorship can therefore serve as a means of access for them since numerous tech organizations are willing to sponsor qualified professionals’ visas. I’d like to list a few things that they can use to their benefit.
I choose to pursue my career in the USA, but I might like to explore other countries as well. And when delving into the realm of opportunities abroad, understanding the variety of possible visa choices is important. Gathering information on the visa options for employment and education empowers individuals to strategically plan their next steps, ensuring they stay abreast of requirements and navigate the application process seamlessly.
Building a tech career in the USA requires a combination of education, continuous learning, networking, and practical experience. Stay persistent, adapt to industry changes, and leverage the vast resources available in the USA to propel your career forward. Whether you’re an aspiring developer, engineer, data scientist, or IT professional, the USA provides an ecosystem that fosters innovation and growth.
The tech industry is dynamic, and with dedication and strategic planning, you can unlock a world of possibilities in the ever-evolving landscape of technology. I hope these insights are the compass guiding your tech aspirations.
Got a question or need clarity? I’m just a message away. Whether it’s about my work, collaborations, or general inquiries, I’m here to provide the answers you need.