One Year On: How CloudRock’s Cultivate programme kickstarted my career in tech consulting
From campus to CloudRock
From campus curiosity to corporate confidence, CloudRock’s Cultivate Programme has been nothing short of transformative. Stepping into the unknown, I entered the corporate world and dove into a technology I had never even heard of during my campus days, Workday. From the very first day, it felt like learning a new language. Luckily, I was surrounded by incredible mentors, enthusiastic peers, and a healthy dose of fun along the way. The environment encouraged us to ask questions, explore freely, and enjoy the journey, rather than just focus on the end goal.
A training experience that stood out
The Cultivate Graduate Training Programme was much more than slide decks and lectures. It was a well-structured blend of theory and practical learning. We weren’t simply told what to do, we were shown how and why. Every concept was tied to real-world scenarios, engaging discussions, and hands-on configurations. Without this solid foundation, stepping onto real client projects would have been overwhelming.
And then came the unexpected surprises, like game sessions and spontaneous icebreakers led by our mentors. They turned what could have been just another training module into something we actually looked forward to. Never thought I'd enjoy configuring payroll this much.
A cohort that felt like home
Our batch built what I’d call a mini college atmosphere within a corporate setting. We shared knowledge, lifted each other up, and intuitively knew when to pause for a coffee break or throw in a well-timed joke to break the tension. It was a collaborative space where learning was constant and support was always around the corner.
Stepping into the real world
Post training, we entered the shadowing phase. This was when everything started to click. We observed how senior consultants approached real client problems, how they balanced delivery with expectations, and how they communicated solutions. We were slowly encouraged to contribute, not just watch. Whether it was joining brainstorming sessions or handling a segment of a client request, we got to apply what we’d learned in ways that truly mattered.
Every day was something new, a fresh problem to solve, a new config to try, or a conversation that sparked insight. The mix of seriousness and support, of work and wit, made the experience dynamic and fulfilling. Having people around who were just as ready to help you debug a config as they were to share a meme or a chai break made all the difference.
Taking ownership
As months passed, we began to take on more responsibility. From shadowing tasks to managing deliverables, preparing for client calls, and handling challenges independently, the shift was both exciting and empowering. Each task, no matter how small, felt like a learning opportunity and a stepping stone. It was no longer just about being trained, it was about beginning to guide ourselves.
This transition helped build confidence in our decision-making and taught us how to take ownership, communicate clearly, and stay adaptable in a fast-paced environment.
More than just skills
While the technical skills we gained were critical, the real value of the programme was in how it shaped our mindset. It moved me from asking “Can I do this?” to confidently thinking, “Let’s get this done.” I learned to stay curious, be resilient in the face of change, and never stop learning, values that continue to guide me today.
Looking back, moving forward
One year on, I look back with gratitude. The Cultivate Programme didn’t just prepare me for a job; it gave me a launchpad for a long-term career. I walked in with uncertainty and walked out with capability, confidence, and a strong network of peers and mentors.
It’s been a journey filled with learning, growth, and plenty of memorable moments. Most importantly, it taught me that success isn’t just about knowing all the answers, it’s about being ready to ask the right questions, stay adaptable, and keep moving forward.