I left my job last year to move from India to the United Kingdom. It was a new beginning for me and my family. The first few months were mostly settling in—adjusting to the change in weather and routine.
With two degrees in engineering and manufacturing technology, my appetite for knowledge and a thirst for new adventure is always switched to ‘on mode’.
It became clear to me that to re-establish myself in a new country and live a comfortable life, the following skills—which I gained during my studies and job as a STEM professional—would help me immensely.
1. Communication
Technology and engineering have really advanced communication channels and mediums making the communication process fast, smart and clear. Whether it was finding a home for rent, opening bank accounts or registering myself with the National Health Service, I realized that being tech savvy and educated in the digital world gives you an advantage.
2. Critical Analysis
I am not talking about analysis of a maths problem here. But yes, analysing and solving problems in mathematics really helped me weigh real life problems, analyse them criticality and then work on the solutions. I realized just how important a strong understanding of mathematics is when I started deducing and comparing the living index and the cost of living from my home country to that of the UK.
3. Creativity
Some people think creativity is a born trait. But, I can definitely say that by understanding science and technology, we can cultivate creative thinking. For example, when I was setting up and decorating my new place, the science of light (illumination) and colors with the technology of LED, helped me give my home a calm and soothing feel.
4. Teamwork
Of course, I moved with my partner and child and we worked as a team to manage our time and efforts. When it came to planning activities, I knew a major chunk would have to be handled by me because he had to go to his new office too. It was like a group lab experiment for us, one has to take care of the material to requisite and the other has to take care of the paperwork. But the fun part is both learning in the process and sharing ideas at the conclusion.
5. Independent thinking and problem solving
When it came to the installation of all the appliances, setting up of internet and gas connection, it really took a lot of effort. But here I was, understanding the technicality of machines, modem and equipment. I would say an engineering degree is really worth it.
I can manage things independently, think about the root of the problems and faults and leverage my skills in day to day life.
In addition to the skills above, there are many other skills which have helped me surround myself with positivity and motivation. One of them is networking—something SWE has helped me with a great deal. Attending Global Ambassador meetings, talking to other members, sharing my experiences and now working as a co-lead for content curators work group. All of this has helped me keep afloat and grow, too.
I am still looking for a pad to land on as my job search continues, but surely in the process I haven’t stopped learning.
And so, I close with a quote—my favorite quote from my role model, Albert Einstein:
“Education is not the learning of facts, but the training of the mind to think.”
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