Women in Tech Interview: Shruti Choudhury
Shruti Choudhury, an Oracle Applications Technical Consultant at Version 1 based in Bengaluru, discusses her career path and the progression opportunities at Version 1, her favourite parts of the role and career advice for other women in tech.
By way of introduction, can you let everyone know a little about you?
Hi, I am Shruti Choudhury, and I am from Bangalore, India. I grew up in Bangalore and did all my formal education in this wonderful city. Speaking of my education, I completed my Bachelors in Electronics and Communication Engineering, and upon finishing I joined Version 1 in September 2022 as a graduate and what a journey it has been. Outside of work, my hobbies keep varying since I find it hard to stick to one thing. I love dancing during the weekends, and I play a little bit of tennis. Apart from that, I love trying different cuisines and currently, I am obsessing over Asian Cuisine, especially Sushi. I also enjoy binge-watching in my free time and my favourite genre would be sitcoms, sci-fi, thriller, mystery and I enjoy romantic comedies too.
You joined Version 1 six months ago, what made you join us and what were your first impressions?
I joined Version 1 because I knew this was the right place for me to broaden my knowledge of databases, which is the core foundation for any data science application today. I resonated with the core values of the company, and it just seemed like a right fit for me. Also, not to mention that Version 1 has been awarded the title “Great Place to Work” multiple times and who wouldn’t want to experience that?
My first impression was that I was surrounded by many intellectuals who would provide me with various opportunities to grow professionally. My role sees me come to the office quite a lot, and I was keen on socializing in person finally after the COVID waves.
What does a typical day look like for you?
I cannot describe my typical day because no two days are the same. That would be a very boring life!
My body clock gets me out of bed at 6:30 AM. I try to exercise, cycle, play tennis, squash, or even dance if there’s pleasant weather. Finishing up with a warm shower and hefty breakfast, I get ready and leave for work. Since the office is quite a distance from where I live and thanks to the infamous traffic in Bangalore it takes me almost an hour and a half to reach the office.
Once I reach the office, things start to get interesting. I check my emails and any scheduled meetings and then plan my day based on this. Lunch with my colleagues is the favourite part of my day. It’s hard to get back to work after such a fun meal but duty calls. Version 1 Bangalore provides delicious snacks in the evening for all its employees and the best part is, it’s different every day! Then I relax and head back home with music because the constant horns on the way back home are not something anyone enjoys. Once I reach home, I finish up any pending work and or watch something on Netflix.
You’re joining us right at the start of your career, what is the Career Development like at Version 1?
I believe Version 1 has the capability to keep growing and growing. Starting my career with them has provided me with exposure to the opportunities available and the knowledge of others around me which has been really valuable so far.
The Career Development through the Pathways programme in Version 1 is extremely structured and methodical, which means I know exactly what I need to do to move up in the company. I love the various interactions between the different hierarchies within the company – it’s great to be able to see people in their positions and what they do. It’s amazing to experience how invested the company is in our growth.
In my opinion, Version 1 is the perfect place to grow my career because people higher up the hierarchy ladder are aware of my work and are constantly checking on me to see if I need support in my own growth and learning. When a workplace is well connected with fluid interactions, it gives you a sense of belonging where you contribute to your team’s growth as well as to your own individual growth.
What have you enjoyed most about being a part of the Version 1 team?
I’m going to be a bit honest here. I enjoy the frequent parties that Version 1 organises for their teams. I love to socialise, and this is a perfect opportunity for me to connect with so many individuals in different ways, which normally wouldn’t occur in our day-to-day busy schedule. What I also enjoy is working with such amazingly talented people that are extremely welcoming and supportive.
Coming back to work culture, I am fascinated by how all our seniors push us to look beyond our limits to explore our hidden talents, which ignites a fire inside you to constantly be a better version of yourself.
What advice do you have for women looking to get into the tech industry?
My advice to women would be to not hold back and pursue what they dream of. I think women should step out of their comfort zone and seek opportunities to grow their expertise and show the world what they are capable of.
Criticism is a part of life, especially in the workforce, I would advise women to take criticism as feedback and not let it get them down – instead, use it as a stepping stone to greater things. The tech industry is a competitive field and it’s important to be heard; therefore, I would also advise women to never be afraid to speak up and always put forth ideas and opinions irrespective of the outcome.
Last but not least, Women are born to shine!
Start your career journey with Version 1 today by taking a look at our careers page. You can also read our previous Women in Tech interviews with Ángela Sanchez and Linh Luong and why not check out our Glassdoor page for the latest information on company culture, interviewing and more.
About Version 1
Version 1 proves that IT can make a real difference to our customers’ businesses. We are trusted by global brands to deliver IT services and solutions which drive customer success. Our team of over 3000 dedicated difference-makers works tirelessly to provide independent advice and deliver impactful changes to help our customers navigate the rapidly changing Digital-First world we live in. Our greatest strength is balance in our efforts to achieve Customer Success, Empowered People, and a Strong Organisation, underpinned by a commitment to our values. We believe this is what makes Version 1 different and more importantly, our customers agree.
Version 1: A Great Place To Work® Around the Globe
What's it like working at Version 1, a Best Workplace™? Let’s hear from our colleagues in India, Ireland, Spain, and the UK!
Read more from Women in Tech
