Software engineering students have no shortage of career paths to choose from after college. In fact, you could find you have too much choice! And what if you make one that’s not a fit? Or pick an industry or specialization that’s not quite ticking the right boxes for you?
We spoke with Oracle’s Tracie Meier, VP of Early Career Programs, for her insights.
VP, Early Career Programs
Graduate development programs offer a structured bridge to the world of work with learning and progression opportunities tailored to newcomers. Think of them as an on-ramp to the rest of your engineering career that gives you the best chance to get up to speed in the most efficient way possible.
As the lead of our Oracle Global Tech Program, I have seen firsthand the impact it can have on early careers through growth, connections, and meaningful experiences.
Let’s delve into how you can make the most of your early career journey with a grad program like Oracle’s.
Making connections: Networking with purpose
Hard skill development is vital in engineering, but connecting with others is just as important for professional growth. I’ve seen Global Tech Program grads build meaningful connections that have influenced whole careers for the better.
All college hires on our program work closely with each other during their year together, from onboarding and development sessions through to community and volunteer events.
Participants in programs like this also gain valuable access to alumni and previous program members. This means you have access to a readymade network of seasoned professionals full of advice on exactly the kind of career questions you may already be asking yourself.
Learning to lead
You’ll also find plenty of former Global Tech Program members in leadership (something we’re very proud of). This can put you in an excellent position to introduce yourself to leaders across Oracle, tap into their knowledge, and unlock unexpected career opportunities.
Of course, a good grad program should also be open to outside talent to keep up with the latest in industry and professional development trends. That’s why we’ve brought in people like leadership expert Marcus Buckingham and inspirational speakers like Humble the Poet to address our program members during skill boost sessions and the annual all-in culmination event.
Here are some questions to ask about networking when choosing a program:
- Will I get to connect, engage, and grow with peers?
- Is there access to alumni who have walked the same path?
- Are leaders at all levels accessible and willing to engage?
- Are outside perspectives and expertise valued and heard?
Nurturing personal and professional growth
Leadership isn’t just about leading teams of people. Anyone can learn to influence their work environment for the better, take ownership, and anticipate change.
A solid graduate program should realize that developing leadership skills shouldn’t have to be put off because you’re starting out in your career.
Here at Oracle, our approach is to empower grads to develop leadership qualities from the very beginning through on-the-job learning. This is divided into three main streams:
- Self-directed learning where college hires take charge of their learning journeys
- Learning pathways with structured events and roadmaps for growth
- Learning opportunities through giving and volunteering
It’s always a good idea to make sure any graduate program you consider doesn’t leave this up to chance. Explore and understand the learning opportunities open to you and consider how you can make them work for you.
Taking the next step
Your early career journey is an adventure waiting to unfold. It’s a time to embrace connections, seize opportunities, and grow—both personally and professionally. And you can supercharge the process with the right graduate development program.
Here’s what some of our recent participants have to say about their experiences:
“I am grateful for Oracle’s huge investment in our professional and personal growth.”
Simeon Eseyin
Global Tech Alum, Oracle
“To kick off my career, I’m so grateful to be able to participate in the Global Tech Program—a year-long developmental experience for us new campus hires!”
Layla Massey
Global Tech Alum, Oracle
“Oracle’s Global Tech Program opened doors I never knew existed. The mentorship and learning opportunities have been transformative.”
Ledornubari Nwilene
Global Tech Alum, Oracle
“I am so proud to be a part of Oracle!”
Claudina Guerra
Global Tech Alum, Oracle
Do you want to start your engineering career ready to succeed right out of college? Check out the Oracle Global Tech Program today to see how your career could flourish.