Samuel Seifu and Pranaykumar Golkonda both graduated from Wichita State University in 2015 with Computer Networking degrees. They now work for Arista Networks and recently came back to do on-campus interviews with students that are interested in similar career paths.

Golkonda first met company representatives from Arista through a Career Development Center career fair, which eventually led to his hiring. Seifu held an internship at Arista the semester before he graduated that transitioned into a full-time position after completing his studies.

“The networking courses that I took at WSU were critical for clearing the interview process for my current position,” Samuel recalls. “The internship experience was also really essential for my career development in general.”

Golkonda advises students to schedule last semester classes that allow enough time to study and also prepare for interviews before graduation. “That gave me ample time to prepare for job opportunities,” he said.

Both alums recommend that those with serious interest in working for Arista prepare themselves beforehand. Complete networking certifications, stay up to date with current technology, improve troubleshooting skills, and have full understanding of fundamental networking concepts to set yourself up for success.

“Don’t stop yourself from learning more,” Seifu encourages. “Try to get as much hands-on experience as possible.” Golkonda agreed and added to not be afraid to make mistakes and learn from them.

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Wichita State's applied learning program gives students hands-on, paid experience with industry partners, helping them build careers before graduation.

For more information, contact the Shocker Career Accelerator at (316) 978-3688, SCA@wichita.edu, or visit wichita.edu/Career. You can also stop by in person at the Marcus Welcome Center, Suite 139, on the Wichita State campus.