What my Telstra graduate experience has been like so far

One of the main highlights of my time as a Telstra grad in Hong Kong has been learning all the stories behind the great careers of so many people across this organisation.

Jimmy Kiyama · 02 March 2021 · 3 minute read

I’ve only just started my professional career and I feel like I’m peering through a keyhole, trying to figure out what I’m supposed to do. Hearing what all these people did to get them where they are today has been really inspiring to me. It’s helping me realign what I should be doing to ultimately have a fulfilling career.

I’ve also been impressed with the excellent learning resources Telstra provides its graduates. I feel like there’s a lot of room here for me to grow and I intend to take full advantage of it.

Here is an insight into my journey so far.

Getting comfortable in my new environment

This is my first job, so when I started at Telstra as part of the Graduate Program in Asia, I found the experience quite daunting. It’s taken some time to get used to the fact that I’m in a corporate environment now.

But I have also found that being a part of the program is making me a lot better at networking, striking up conversations and approaching others for help. I’ve been introduced to so many different people already and it’s building up my confidence in talking to people from all walks of life.

Support and opportunity

Everyone at Telstra is so welcoming and friendly. There’s a lot to learn at a big company like this, which can be overwhelming – and that’s where the grad program has been helpful. I have a great support structure, with people checking in on me and asking if I need anything. I’m a bit shy, so it’s helpful having that support and assistance behind me as I get more accustomed to working life.

I’ve also been very pleasantly surprised at all the learning opportunities available.

Telstra offers everyone on the program endless courses and training on a huge variety of topics, from technical to soft skills, which I am taking advantage of.

It’s a great place to launch your career

At Telstra, I’ve noticed that the people here really enjoy their jobs. There’s a good work-life balance as well as a sense of job satisfaction because we’re all contributing to society in a positive way by helping to build a connected future, which is really nice. It’s made me realise that I can have a great career and do something that fulfils me professionally.

By Jimmy Kiyama

Network Engineering Specialist

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