Imagine working a job with no visible future. Where opportunities seem limited, and the work feels monotonous.
Standing at the crossroads of your career, you face a choice: accept the status quo or dare to embark on a transformative journey toward a brighter future.
Do you decide to change, take a bold step, and start something new for a better job and life?
For Teodora Futekova, the decision was clear - she wanted to make the change, become a QA engineer, and continue growing as a person and a specialist.
And grow she did!
Today, Teodora is a Quality Assurance Specialist at our partner
HedgeServ - a place where she has the freedom and support to develop as a professional.
But how did it all happen? Keep reading - perhaps you find yourself at a similar crossroads in your career and life, and Theodora's story is just what you need (well, and one of our
6-month career-changing Alpha programs).
Hi, Teodora. It is great having you here on our blog! We are sure that your story of change will inspire all the readers who can feel somehow stuck in their careers. How did it all start for you?
I have a master’s degree in architecture and worked as an architect for four years. However, I reached a point where I felt it was time for a change. So, I graduated from the Telerik Academy Alpha QA program, and right after it ended,
HedgeServ hired me. I've been with the company ever since - it will be two years this September.
It all happened so fast. What's your perspective on how the
Telerik Academy Alpha QA program helped you kickstart your career?
Telerik Academy gave me the knowledge and skills to successfully interview and get hired in a very short time of 6 months, which is unthinkable for many career paths where it takes years. There are classes in the program not only for technical but also for soft skills. Having taken part in the interview process from both sides – interviewer and candidate I can say they are equally important.
How did your life change after that?
It was a significant change for me, starting a whole new career. The work culture is different. The remote work model was new for me too. I got out of a routine without any challenges, and now I am contributing and constantly learning new things.
I believe self-improvement is always a good investment. We spend way too many hours of the day working not to be satisfied with what we do, and now I am.
What made HedgeServ stand out as an employer?
Considering my lack of prior QA experience,
HedgeServ not only gave me an opportunity but also provided an environment that fostered my growth and development.
HedgeServ offer comprehensive training programs for new hires, ensuring that everyone becomes adept with the technologies employed here. There is great collaboration among colleagues. The team's willingness to extend help and support has created an atmosphere that's invaluable for professional growth.
A remarkable feature at HedgeServ is the complexity of the projects undertaken. Working on intricate products has challenged me in the best possible way, and every day I find myself learning and expanding my skill set.
The company offers a hybrid work model, along with the flexibility and benefits they provide. This approach acknowledges the need for balance and adaptability, creating an environment where one can thrive both personally and professionally.
And today - what is it like working at HedgeServ? What are your responsibilities?
In my role as a QA Automation Engineer, I assume complete ownership of the QA process. This involves everything from actively participating in task refinement and estimation to crafting new automated tests and maintaining the existing test suite. The environment provides ample opportunities for mastering new technologies and witnessing the evolution of the product my team is dedicated to is incredibly fulfilling.
And one final but important question - what advice would you give our readers on the fence about their career transformation?
The most important advice I can give is not to be afraid to ask for help when you’re stuck. The information you need to get in your head can sometimes be overwhelming, but a little push from someone more knowledgeable goes a long way. I look for a solution independently first, but I always reach out to colleagues if it’s not working or if I think there is a better way. The quickest way to progress is to be around people with more experience.
Do you want to change your life and start your journey in the IT industry? The fastest path to becoming an in-demand software developer is waiting for you. Apply for
Telerik Academy Alpha!
