Karthik
Software Test Developer Associate, Evanston Office
Education
University of Colorado at Boulder
M.S. in Computer Science
Activities at Colorado: I wrote a lot – poems, short stories and such. I also conducted a yearly crossword-solving competition called “Cryptrick”, which was a lot of fun. Apart from that, I played lots of cricket, which is the uncrowned king of sport in India.
Memories of Colorado: “When I first came to the U.S., I had only $80 in my bank account after paying my tuition, and my first paycheck from my on-campus job at the library was still three weeks away. Having led a very cosy and sheltered live till then, I quickly learnt everything I needed to about responsibility and accountability in those three weeks. The lessons I learned then come in handy even today, and will probably continue to be useful for the rest of my life.”
Hometown
Mumbai, India
Career Path
Software Test Developer Associate, 2006
Fun fact
“I have watched Napoleon Dynamite many more times than I would like to admit.”
On joining ZS
“I graduated from University of Colorado at Boulder with a M.S. in Computer Science. I started at ZS in May, 2006.”
On life outside work
“I love reading. I like walking into a bookstore and reading anything that looks interesting to me. I also like watching slapstick comedies.I also volunteer for the Taprooot Foundation, which is a great way for anyone looking to do some fun pro bono work, and support a great cause.”
On working at ZS
What is something you really like about working for ZS?
“I like the fact that I am given the liberty to define a lot of my own goals and to pursue them in whichever way I find the most efficient.”
What is something interesting/challenging you’ve worked on lately?
“I recently wrote an automated UI test suite in VBScript using TestComplete. I learned a lot about how to programmatically access Windows/.NET controls. I had no prior experience with any of the said technologies, but I learned everything I needed to know along the way.”
What most surprised you when you started at ZS?
“The very laid-back and relaxed atmosphere within the SD group. There is a close-knit feeling to the group that is conducive to keeping everyone very productive.”
On commuting to work
“I live in downtown Chicago, and I take the Metra to work. Its a 20 minute train ride each way. I usually take the time to think about my work schedule for the day, or to listen to music on my iPod.”
On advice for candidates searching for a test development position
“Read Erik Sink’s essay wherein he describes the difference between a programmer and a developer. Aspire to be a developer!”