As I look back on my transformative first 12 months and a half at Cisco, several key reflections and learnings stand out. What struck me most was the company’s unwavering commitment to innovation.

I am passionate about shaping a brighter future for all. Committed to a higher purpose, my existence is singularly focused on fulfilling this sacred mission. After spending nearly 18 months with Cisco, I was drawn by the company’s passion for purpose-driven work, leading to a transformative experience so far.

At the moment, I’m a member of the Folks, Coverage & Goal (3P) FLEX Rising Leaders Program, which is a management rotational program for early-in-career people to discover careers throughout the varied 3P groups.

Through this program, I’ve had transformative experiences, including mentoring Networking Academy’s scholar population (Cisco’s largest corporate social responsibility initiative) and collaborating with Cisco’s Strategy, Development, and Governance team on various projects. Additionally, I recently served as Chief of Staff to Leslie Gordon, Vice President of the Office of Accessibility. I’ve been incredibly busy and achieved a tremendous amount.

As I mark 18 months with Company America, I’d like to reflect on some key takeaways and insights gathered during this journey so far. While early in their careers, individuals often face similar challenges, it is crucial for those embarking on this journey to understand that they are not alone. Furthermore, open discussion about office experiences fosters a culture of authenticity and trust.

The often underestimated significance of discreetly shared information in fostering relationships and driving projects forward lies in its ability to create trust, promote collaboration, and facilitate informed decision-making.

The pressure of being indispensable is palpable – it’s overwhelming to consider stepping back from responsibilities, especially when others rely on my input while I’m absent? Despite occasional challenges, my leaders have consistently demonstrated a high level of support and understanding. Because of my emotions, I’m thankful that Cisco observes company-wide shutdowns, allowing us to collectively recharge without anxiety about falling behind in our work.

While remote work may lead to missed opportunities for informal conversations, making an effort to reconnect with colleagues through regular check-ins can have a revitalizing effect and foster deeper connections. One-on-one interactions with my colleagues in the FLEX program are invigorating, regardless of whether we’re discussing work-related topics like rotations or exploring shared interests in popular culture and personal lives. Meeting one-on-one makes catching up so much more enjoyable.

(It’s exhausting! And scary! However SO price it.)

Experienced individuals often have valuable lessons to share, making mentorship a highly rewarding experience for both parties involved. The skip degree for my second rotation was Elaine Mason, Senior Vice President of Technique, Improvement & Governance (SDG). I was deeply appreciative of her willingness to offer guidance and recommendations that left a lasting impression on me.

As I leverage my identical expertise to drive value in my current role as a holder of the same degree, Brian Tippens, Senior Vice President and Chief Social Impact Officer.

Cisco’s leadership team includes individuals who serve as FLEX Government Sponsors, dedicating even more time to support early-career experts. These leaders exemplify the many Cisco leaders who go above and beyond to be accessible to their broader teams.

I haven’t volunteered enough over the past year. For the next 12 months, I’m committed to dedicating time to a cause I’m passionate about, thanks in part to Cisco’s “Time2Give” program, which provides 80 hours of paid volunteer leave to support organizations and initiatives that resonate with me. Additionally, this is in line with our overall Vision To Operate. That’s really quite something! Can’t help but feel a sense of excitement knowing this is going to be an amazing experience.

It’s crucial to possess the ability to convey complex ideas while staying focused on your goals and keeping momentum going. Constructive outlooks are key!

Recently, I confirmed my attendance at Cisco Stay, the annual gathering of IT professionals, business leaders, and technology enthusiasts who gather to explore cutting-edge innovations. Although I had never visited a Cisco Stay before, despite feeling apprehensive about spending four days in Las Vegas, I ended up having the best weeks of my life. I spent hours inside Cisco’s NERv Truck. This is one of the most exciting developments in Cisco.

The next four decades will be a long-term commitment, during which I’ll focus on achieving incremental successes and celebrating each milestone along the way. In today’s highly competitive global landscape, persistence is crucial for achieving success.

Having worked at a prestigious organization like Cisco has taught me the value of work-life stability, further enhanced by their “Days for Me” initiative, which grants employees time off every quarter to recharge and reconnect with personal priorities outside of work.

I’m deeply thankful for the support received during my career path thus far, and I feel incredibly fortunate to be a part of the Cisco team. I’m excited to revisit this opportunity in a decade’s time and showcase my progress by sharing what I’ve learned alongside other outstanding individuals.

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