In our “From Student to” series, we delve into the journeys of Cisco Poland team members, tracing their paths from student life to their current roles. Each post highlights their transitions from learners to professionals, offering valuable insights for aspiring talents looking to navigate the tech industry. This time, we’re excited to share the story of Maja Matuszewska, a Customer Project Manager from the Customer Delivery PMO Team at Cisco.
Maja’s journey started quite unexpectedly, amidst a world turned upside down by COVID-19. Her parents had always urged her to concentrate on her studies, especially as she ambitiously tackled two degrees during the pandemic. Yet, it was during this time that she stumbled upon an internship opportunity at Cisco.
The allure of Cisco was familial—IT ran in her blood. From her grandmother’s coding adventures to her parents’ careers in the tech world, Maja was destined to follow a similar path. But her vision was distinct: she yearned to meld technical acuity with soft skills, to find a niche where the analytical met the interpersonal. Cisco presented that balance—a technical powerhouse offering a less technical role.
As an intern and later as a graduate, she delved into the realm of Project Management (PMO), a field that harmonized her dual passions. She even embarked on a business trip to a client site, an experience that added depth to her practical knowledge.
The secret to thriving in this role? Embrace planning and joy. Maja has learned to pursue tasks that spark excitement within her and to let go of those that don’t, sidestepping the snare of burnout. Her commitment became a source of happiness, allowing her to savor the fruits of her work.
Along this path, she honed unexpected skills: the ability to craft a robust project plan, to anticipate rather than merely respond. It’s about foresight—envisioning what she will need, when she will need it, and how to efficiently marshal resources for each task.
The lessons Maja has learned has been invaluable. Alone, one might travel swiftly, but in collaboration, we reach farther horizons. The Cisco environment fosters teamwork and support, magnifying the scale of impact. There’s a unique energy that comes from being surrounded by like-minded individuals eager to help and cooperate.
If she had to distill Cisco into a single concept, it would be “people and values.” The appreciation for each individual, the open and friendly atmosphere, and the readiness to assist aren’t universal in the corporate world. Cisco stands out; it’s the people and the culture that energize and inspire us to achieve more.
Maja’s advise based on her experience? Dive into risks and embrace challenges. While it’s great to have clarity about your desires, the true thrill lies in taking calculated leaps. After all, the journey with Cisco is not just about where you end up, but also about the growth and joy you find along the way.
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