When Nirali Parikh graduated from Carramar in 2014 her career ambitions could not be more different to where she is today, but she’s loved the journey that has brought her here!
Like many, Nirali went straight to university after graduation.
“I went to UWA and initially studied a Bachelor of Science majoring in Neuroscience and also earnt a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degree,” said Nirali.
“I then went on to complete my Masters in Podiatric Medicine and worked as a podiatrist for three years. A few years into practice I started second guessing my career choice. I wasn’t sure it was what I wanted to do forever.”
In an admirable leap of faith, Nirali reduced her working hours and with encouragement from her brother, she started teaching herself to code in her free time.
“I was self-taught for a few months, then did a six-month bootcamp for women trying to switch careers and get into the tech industry,” said Nirali.
“Then I caught a break by being hired as a junior at a tech and gaming company where I am working today as a software engineer.”
It’s a switch that is clearly suiting Nirali well.
“I work in a very cool office with a supportive team and managers, with lots of emphasis on up-skilling and career development,” said Nirali.
“My day-to-day involves coding and problem solving and building online games. I love that I get to use problem-solving skills I learnt in high school!”
In her free time Nirali likes to get away from the screen, though.
“I love Bollywood dancing and working out,” she said.
Nirali’s time as a St Stephen’s student taught her some important skills that have contributed to her success today.
“School taught me time management and organisational skills as well as critical thinking and interpersonal skills which are vital in any workplace.”
Based on her life experience, Nirali encourages other students to embrace everything that secondary school offers.
“The things you learn day-to-day may not seem applicable to what you want to do after high school, but not every piece of content you get taught is geared towards that,” said Nirali.
“The purpose of secondary education is to open your mind and prepare you for life beyond school, the purpose of tertiary education is to gear you towards a field you actually want to be in.”
“I never thought I’d have to use my maths knowledge after school because I knew I wanted to work in healthcare, only to end up in a software engineering role ten years later,” she laughed.
“If you don’t know what you want to do after school, don’t go to uni just because you feel like you should. It’s veryyyyy expensive and this fact only hits you after you finish your degree. If you’re interested in a field, talk to as many people as you can in that field before committing. Shadow professionals where you can, get to know the good and the bad, and then make up your mind.”
“There’s nothing wrong with taking some time off after school if you can. This will be the only time you get to yourself without any pressures or responsibilities. Use it wisely.”
Thanks to Nirali for sharing her story, and for organising the Carramar Class of 2014 reunion last month.