Rabin Shrestha
Acxiom CorporationI am still in the process of learning how things work around here. The workplace is a little different from what I previously imagined. This is a flat organization; I don't have too many layers of bosses above me and I don't have people beneath me. We all work in a team, so if I am stuck with something, I don't have to panic. I just go to the person who knows the problem better. The work hours are pretty flexible. It is not like 8-5... as long as things get done... no need to be here from 8 to 5... we can leave early... but it is a convention that we stay till 5.
Well, as far as my job description goes, I am a Software Engineer. I have to write programs according to the customer's specifications. I have been writing programs in C, but we still have millions of lines of code that are written in Assembly. In other words, 90 percent of our code is in Assembly. I never thought I would encounter Assembly Language in my life, but now I have to dig through my notes and books. Unfortunately, Acxiom has no formal training, so we learn as we go. We do have a school where we can take classes, but there are very few technical courses offered.
As far as writing code goes, we can use C or Assembly. Also, we have many homegrown products so we don't need to write everything in the program. We can borrow functions from here and there, but it is very essential to know how those products work. Since we work in teams, we always discuss problems in a group.
Well, getting into the job market is a different kind of experience. No particular course in school is more important than another is. I believe the overall experience is helping me. Programming skills are essential, and database knowledge has helped me understand a few things. Additionally, it is analytical skills that play a vital role in this field.
Thank you,
Rabin Shrestha
Acxiom Corporation
(501)336-2489
rshres@acxiom.com