From the UK to the US to Hungary; Working for EPAM Around the World
News:
If you are open to new things, like EPAM Lead Software Engineer, Peter Trestyanszki, you’ll definitely enjoy working in different countries. If you still aren’t sure whether working in a different location is for you, Peter’s story could convince you that trying out different EPAM locations can lead to some awesome experiences and benefits.
Why is your home country, Hungary, a worthwhile destination for EPAMers?
For those EPAMers who like to get from point A to point B very quickly, Hungary is a great place to be. Although it’s a small country, there are many natural attractions there. If you don’t speak Hungarian, it’s not a problem at all. In fact, there are many foreign companies in the country, so most people speak English. At EPAM Hungary, there is a lot of competition among colleagues. Everyone is really dedicated to learning quickly and climbing the corporate ladder. Hungary is a good choice for hardworking people – it’s really motivating to be in a challenging environment like that.
What did you enjoy about Szeged?
It’s one of the nicest places I’ve ever been to. The public transportation is perfect, and the atmosphere in the city is incredibly good and cozy. There are many cultural programs in Szeged, the University of Szeged, and several colleges. I know colleagues who even moved from Budapest to Szeged. The EPAM Szeged office is very nice as well, and we are constantly expanding. EPAM is one of the most important companies in Szeged.
Tell us about your first relocation to the UK
I was only in Britain for about nine months. There are so many different cultures in Britain. It would take a few years, at least, to become acquainted with all of them. For me, it took about one month to get acclimated. I felt comfortable pretty much immediately. I worked on a project for a media agency that developed and implemented new features to online workshops of a mobile provider. In fact, I started to work on this project from Hungary, and later, the client asked me to move onsite.
What were the benefits of relocating to EPAM UK?
For me, English was the key benefit. Before relocating to London, I was pretty quiet during meetings, but after nine months, I started to get more comfortable in sharing. My English communication skills are much better — and that’s a very good feeling.
In July 2015, you relocated to America. What drove you to the region?
First, one of my brothers lives there. Secondly, I wanted to move abroad, because I realized that in a couple of years, I wouldn’t have any chance to move here to work. A position in San Francisco sounded interesting and was very far from Hungary. I wanted to try it and see what it was like to live in the US. Honestly, I was a bit scared when I was in Hungary, but EPAM got me prepared for everything regarding the relocation to America. The company gave me enough information on how to start life here, so I didn’t have any problems with adaptation, or even finding a proper and affordable apartment. This project was an absolutely new area for me and I was able to expand my domain knowledge.
What do you wish people knew about relocation?
After deciding to move abroad and spend one or two years there, you feel a shift in your mindset. This is a huge advantage because it is an opportunity to expand your mind. If you have a chance to go to the West, for example, and work for an American customer, don’t hesitate to move!
