Journey from near nothing, to Big Tech, and into the Dream.
🎓 Harvard University Recruitment:
Straight out of high school, I was recruited by Harvard University. I achieved a perfect score on multiple New York standardized tests, so much so that my teachers would literally place bets on my annual performance.
Despite being offered a potential scholarship for diversity, the cost was astronomical, and I couldn’t help but laugh at the proposition.
🦬 Choosing University at Buffalo:
Instead, I accepted a full academic scholarship to the University at Buffalo, where I graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Double Major.
I succeeded in managing the heaviest course load ever approved.I proactively wrote to the Deans for approval of my credit hours, presenting a detailed time allocation model that showcased my commitment and capability.
🚀 Bay Area Bound:
With nothing but dreams, I moved to the Bay Area. Ran out of 💰, I borrowed from my sister and paid it back with my first paycheck.
Starting as a contract worker at Adobe , I automated my role, earned a full-time position, and went on to contribute to the development of the Data Driven Operating Model, which is now taught at Harvard Business School.
Countless late nights pushing the limits of SFDC, Tableau, and Excel through self-directed learning and experiments. Adobe’s resources and my dedication forged a world-class skillset. Great partners in IT to support my learnings.
📈 Expanding the Data Driven Operating Model:
At Adobe I expanded DDOM into an Enterprise version, adding Implementation and Evaluation Steps, establishing Enterprise Grade KPIs, and up-leveling the GTM motion. Scaling the Dashboard experience to mobile!
🌴 Living the Dream:
The rewards? Achieved everything I set out to by 30 years old, including Director. Then got to travel and have had three incredible years living on Maui.
🔑 Key Takeaways:
You don’t need to fit the traditional mold to achieve greatness. With hard work, resilience, and a willingness to learn, you can overcome nearly any obstacle.
My journey has included building Forecasting for an IPO, leading the creation of a $1B platform from whiteboard to execution, and successfully shifting 2 businesses up-market. You can do great things from humble beginnings!
The ultimate MBA isn’t found in classrooms; it’s in the trenches, doing the work.
💪 Final Thoughts:
Embrace your unique path. Dare to be different. All the roadblocks and hard work are worth it.
#GrowthMindset #LifelongLearner #DareToBeDifferent #SuccessStory #Inspiration
Head of Cloud Protection group at XM Cyber
3moCongrats Odeya... I am sure you will keep impressing your surrounding