Meet a recent Microsoft Learn Student Ambassador graduate Maria-Anastasia Moustaka

[Guest StudentDeveloperTeam]

This is the next segment of our blog series highlighting Microsoft Learn Student Ambassadors who achieved the Gold milestone, the highest level attainable, and have recently graduated from university. Each blog in the series features a different student and highlights their accomplishments, their experience with the Student Ambassador community, and what they’re up to now.

 

 

 

Today we meet Maria-Anastasia who recently graduated with a master’s degree in computer engineering and informatics from the University of Patras in Greece.

 

 

Responses have been edited for clarity and length.

 

 

 

When did you join the Student Ambassadors community?

 

 

 

I joined the Student Ambassadors Community in the third year of my integrated master’s degree in computer engineering and informatics at the University of Patras, back in November 2016, when the Microsoft Learn Student Ambassadors program was still known as Student Guru.

 

 

 

What was being a Student Ambassador like?

 

 

 

Being a Student Ambassador is a fantastic experience. You get to meet new people from your university and from all over the world, work in teams, create projects, give presentations, and continuously learn about new technologies. It gives you a sense of purpose and fulfilment.

 

 

 

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Maria-Anastasia at the end of a presentation.

 

 

Was there a specific experience you had while you were in the program that had a profound impact on you and why?

 

 

 

Through this program, I began lecturing on IoT, which allowed me to connect with MVPs and Cloud Advocates. These connections were pivotal in helping me become an MVP myself, a title I've held for the past three years, since December of 2021. This experience had a profound impact on my career, as it not only expanded my professional network but also deepened my expertise in the field.

 

 

 

Tell us about a technology you had the chance to gain a skillset in as a Student Ambassador. How has this skill you acquired helped you in your post-university journey?

 

 

 

During my time as a Student Ambassador, I had the opportunity to develop a strong skill set in IoT. Learning about IoT involved understanding how to connect and manage various devices, collect data, and create solutions that leverage this data in meaningful ways. This skill has been incredibly valuable in my post-university journey. It has allowed me to work on innovative projects, stay at the forefront of technological advancements, and has been a key differentiator in my career. The knowledge and experience I gained with IoT have also made me more versatile and equipped to tackle complex challenges in the tech industry.

 

 

 

One of the most impactful moments came after I gave a presentation on IoT at a Greek summit. An employer who attended the session approached me, which led to my first job offer. This opportunity not only launched my professional career but also played a significant role in my journey to becoming an MVP.

 

 

 

What is something you want all students, globally, to know about the Microsoft Learn Student Ambassador Program?

 

 

 

I want all students to know that the Microsoft Learn Student Ambassador Program offers numerous opportunities for gaining knowledge, as well as personal and professional growth. It's a platform that empowers you to develop new skills, connect with like-minded individuals, and advance in your career.

 

 

 

What advice would you give to new Student Ambassadors, who are just starting in the program?

 

 

 

My advice to new Student Ambassadors is to give it their all. Take the time to network and build connections, don't be afraid to collaborate with others, and always be willing to take that extra step. Embrace every opportunity the program offers and push yourself to grow both personally and professionally.

 

 

 

Share a favorite quote with us! It can be from a movie, a song, a book, or someone you know personally. Tell us why you chose this. What does it mean for you?

 

 

 

One of my favorite quotes is “Be passionate!” It’s simple yet powerful. I chose this quote because it embodies the energy and enthusiasm needed to excel in any field. For me, it serves as a reminder to always pursue my interests with dedication and to approach every task with a genuine love for what I’m doing. Passion fuels creativity, resilience, and success, making it an essential part of both personal and professional life.

 

 

 

Tell us something interesting about you, about your journey.

 

 

 

My journey has been quite eventful. I started my first degree in 2015, and thanks to the Student Ambassador community, I secured my first job and achieved MVP status even before I graduated. After finishing my degree, I immediately pursued a master’s program, which I’ve now completed. I’ve since embarked on a PhD journey, all while continuing to work as a software engineer. Although this path has been challenging, it’s also been incredibly rewarding, as I’ve managed to balance my academic ambitions with a thriving professional career.

 

 

 

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Maria-Anastasia at her graduation.

 

 

You can follow Maria-Anastasia here:

 

 

 

Blog: Maria-Anastasia's blog about tech - A blog about IoT, Azure and PowerApps

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maria-anastasia-moustaka/

Twitter: x.com

All of my links: Maria-Anastasia Moustaka

 

 

 

I’m passionate about sharing knowledge in areas like IoT, Azure, software engineering, business applications and the latest tech news and trends. My focus is on inspiring others to pursue careers in technology and highlighting the importance of continuous learning and personal growth in this ever-evolving field.

 

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