I am Naveen Marripati, an MCA graduate from Sri Venkateswara University (SVU), Tirupati. Today, I’m working as a Junior Software Engineer at BufferZero Business Solutions Pvt Ltd. This is my first job in the software industry, and reaching this point was not easy.
Like many others from a small-town background, I had doubts. I tried both offline and online learning paths, dealt with financial struggles, and received mixed opinions from those around me. But I stayed consistent, and eventually, things fell into place.
No Placement Support During College
During my MCA, there were very few placement opportunities available at the college. I had only basic knowledge of coding, and I didn’t know how to take the next step.
I realised that if I wanted a real IT job, I had to start learning outside the classroom.
Offline Courses Seemed Safer at First
Initially, I was unsure about online learning. People around me are hesitant about the online courses. Some said they were too difficult or not useful. I started thinking the same.
So, I joined an offline course, hoping it would be more helpful with in-person support.
But the offline course gave no placement support. I attended a few walk-in interviews and even got an offer, but the offer came with major issues—no PF, low pay, and the job offered no salary for the three months of training. It just didn’t feel right.
That experience made me step back and reconsider my options.
Joining NxtWave Gave Me the Structure I Needed
I came across the NxtWave and enrolled in their Full Stack Development course. What convinced me was their clear structure and focus on job readiness.
- The sessions were simple and easy to understand
- Every topic came with practice sets
- I could watch lectures in a vernacular language I was comfortable with
- I used the discussion portal to ask doubts and learn from others
- The assessments were challenging, but they helped me improve quickly
This was very different from my offline experience. Here, I could see what I was learning and how it was helping me get job-ready.
Why Online Worked Better Than Offline for Me
The biggest difference I felt was in engagement and consistency. Offline classes were irregular and mostly one-way.
However, online learning through NxtWave felt more interactive, flexible, and reliable. I could:
- Learn at my own pace
- Go back to the topics I didn’t understand
- Stay consistent even during difficult weeks
- Improve my communication by engaging in discussions and mocks
This wasn’t just a course, it was a platform that prepared me in every way.
My Family’s Background & Challenges I Faced
I come from a farming family. Financial struggles were constant, especially during my post-graduation.
To support myself during my MCA, I worked part-time for four months. It helped me manage my expenses, but I knew I had to find a long-term solution.
That’s why this job means so much to me.
How I Got My First Job in Tech
After completing the program, I started applying for jobs. Thanks to NxtWave’s placement support and my consistent preparation, I cleared the interviews and got selected at BufferZero as a Junior Software Engineer. I am currently working with SAP, and the experience so far has been exciting.
My Advice to Students in Similar Situations
- Do not ignore online learning just because others say it’s tough.
- Choose a platform that gives structure, support, and real practice.
- Stay consistent, even if you feel slow in the beginning.
- Do not settle for low-quality jobs; invest in your skills first.
- Believe in long-term growth. That mindset makes all the difference.
Final Thoughts
I started with doubts. I had only basic knowledge and no campus offers. But today, I have a real job and a clear path ahead.
So, if you’re trying to make your first step into tech, especially from a rural or non-CS background, know this:
With the right platform and effort, it’s 100% possible.
