About Me- Raksha Vashishta
Immigrant, product owner, & woman in tech, using grit & resilience to transform challenges into opportunities while inspiring others to chase their dreams
My name is Raksha, & I’m more than just numbers or titles. Behind the six-figure salary and a career in smart transportation lies a story of grit, resilience, and an unwavering belief in the power of dreams.
From stepping off a plane with $200 in my pocket to navigating cultural & financial hurdles, my journey is a testament to what’s possible when determination meets opportunity. This is my first post on Medium, and if my story can inspire even one of you, I will consider my purpose to be served.
The Leap of Faith
When I stepped off the plane with just $200 in my pocket and a heart full of dreams, I knew I was embarking on an extraordinary journey. Leaving my home in India wasn’t easy.
As a single woman, moving halfway across the world for a master’s degree with a hefty loan was both exhilarating & daunting. I had already completed a Bachelors back at home, but I wanted to expand my horizons and pursue my passion for technology and problem-solving.
Convincing my parents about this investment in education versus marriage was one of the most challenging battles I’ve fought. Coming from a lower-middle-class background, the idea of spending a significant amount on education — and taking out loans to do so — felt overwhelming. The process of securing a loan itself was a grueling experience, filled with uncertainty and sleepless nights. But I knew in my heart that this was the right path for me. If not now, then when will I ever pursue my dreams?!?!
The Humble Beginnings
My first job in the U.S. was as a cashier at Chick-fil-A. Those initial days taught me resilience, humility, and the value of hard work. I budgeted every penny, cooked my meals, and saved wherever I could. I remember walking past storefronts, dreaming of a day when financial stability wouldn’t feel like a distant goal.
Building a Career in Tech
After earning my degree, I entered the tech industry, focusing on product management in the smart transportation sector. However, the journey to landing my first job was far from smooth. As an international student during the COVID-19 pandemic, I faced countless rejections and moments of doubt.
The uncertainty of the job market, combined with visa restrictions, made the process even more challenging. But I refused to give up. I networked relentlessly, upskilled through online courses, and applied to hundreds of positions. When I finally secured my first role, it felt like a breakthrough that validated all the struggles I had endured.
Over time, I climbed the ladder, navigating challenges as an immigrant and a woman in a male-dominated field. Every step reinforced my belief in perseverance and the importance of continuous learning.
Lessons Learned
- Resilience is Key: Life throws curveballs, but every setback is an opportunity to grow. You’re in the driver's seat of your life; you are in charge of it.
- Community Matters: Surrounding myself with supportive mentors & friends made all the difference. I remember a friend of mine telling me that I had it in me when I was doubting myself.
- Invest in Yourself: Whether it’s education, fitness, or mental well-being, personal growth pays dividends. Your dreams need the best version of yourself.
- Unconventional Paths Work: You don’t have to follow traditional routes to achieve your dreams. Find what works for you and stay the course. Don’t fear to stay out of the herd or to be the only one who believes in your dreams.
A Testament to Dreamers
My story is a testament to every woman from a lower-middle-class background in developing or underdeveloped countries who are doubting her capabilities and dreams. You can break the cycle, challenge societal norms, and carve out a path that’s uniquely yours. The road might be unconventional, but it’s worth every step.
Now, I aim to inspire others who might be in the shoes I once wore. Whether it’s sharing budgeting tips, mentoring aspiring product owners, or simply telling my story, I want to be a reminder that it’s possible to turn humble beginnings into something extraordinary.
If you’d like to connect or follow along on my journey, feel free to reach out to me on LinkedIn
