“Luck is what occurs when preparation meets alternative.” This quote, attributed to Roman thinker Seneca, completely captures how I discovered myself right here, within the extraordinary world of Cisco.
I used to be looking the cabinets of an enormous bookstore when immediately my eyes landed on the CCNA information preparation books. It felt like an indication from the universe to purchase them. Positive, I could not have had all of the networking abilities at that second, however I knew I needed to take that leap of religion. And guess what? Luck intervened only a few days later when the Cisco Technical Help Middle opened workplaces in Mexico Metropolis, and an expensive good friend referred me to a job alternative there. Speak about excellent timing!
I threw myself into studying the foundational networking ideas, and my programming background gave me an edge. That mixture landed me a spot within the superior Core and Structure Expertise Options group, or as we prefer to name it, CATS. Meow!
Once I first joined Cisco and Assist Providers, I couldn’t shake the nerves of not having sufficient technical or smooth abilities. However you recognize what? I stayed in Assist Providers for 5 years, the place I found a deep love for serving to clients overcome challenges and fine-tuning my troubleshooting abilities.
However, the most important shock of my profession got here once I entered to win an opportunity to attend Cisco Rocks — an occasion thanking CEO John Chambers for his 20 years of management, welcoming Chuck Robbins in as the brand new CEO, and introducing the brand new Govt Management Staff. I submitted a video in a contest by way of our Worker Communications web site, and earlier than I knew it, I used to be chosen as a winner and on the journey of a lifetime with 30 different Cisconians from throughout the globe within the midst of a grand celebration on the legendary 49ers stadium with well-known pop stars singing and attending to know our Govt Management Staff. In these moments, I really grasped the essence of Cisco, realizing that it was extra than simply fixing assist instances — it was in regards to the unbelievable folks, making significant connections, and nurturing a vibrant neighborhood.
That journey sparked a fireplace in me.
Getting out of my bubble in Mexico Metropolis, I noticed what different Cisconians have been carrying out professionally, personally, and within the areas the place each worlds come collectively. Via that, I found my true ardour — empowering folks to unleash their potential and eradicating the roadblocks to their development. This newfound flame led me to evolve from an early-grade Buyer Assist Engineer to a World Assist Escalation Supervisor, all because of the assist of my leaders, sponsors, and Cisco itself. They supplied me with unbelievable alternatives, together with financing my MBA research at EGADE Enterprise College and attending periods at Saïd Enterprise College, College of Oxford, and Yale College of Administration. Speak about a transformative expertise!
Over time, I’ve related much more with Cisco tradition, particularly by way of my involvement in teams like Girls of Cisco and Girls in Science and Engineering (WISE). These communities have develop into a protected haven, inspiring me to present again to different women and girls. I turned co-lead of the WISE Chapter in LATAM, the place we invite new voices into the STEM world to cut back the gender hole and present ladies that they will obtain something. And when the pandemic hit, I created the Girls Accelerator Program inside Girls of Cisco Mexico to foster connections and facilitate skilled growth. Collectively, we’ve fashioned a wonderful sense of belonging.
All through my journey, I’ve remained passionately devoted to Cisco and the ideas championed by its visionary management that I received to see firsthand on that life-changing journey. The Acutely aware Tradition, guiding rules, Cisco values, and our objective of “powering an inclusive future for all” have all impressed my private development and allowed me to foster a protected and nurturing atmosphere inside my group and the teams I’m part of. Cisco isn’t only a firm to me — it’s part of my household, embracing my husband and our corgi infants, too.
So why am I sharing this story with you? Easy. I’m overflowing with gratitude after ten years of belonging to this wonderful firm. I’m grateful for the chance to be part of this extraordinary group, however extra importantly, I’m grateful for the unbelievable friendships I’ve fashioned alongside the best way. I’m grateful for the wonderful group I’ve had the privilege to guide. I’m grateful for all the teachings, recommendation, and laughter. And most of all, I’m grateful for the individuals who have impressed me to develop into the perfect model of myself.
Think about being a part of an organization that not solely accepts you for who you’re but additionally challenges you to repeatedly attempt for private {and professional} development. That, my mates, is the magic of Cisco.
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