What’s it really like to start your career in IT? In this series, Harvest students and alumni share their experiences of learning, growing, and finding their place at Essent IT. From first-day nerves to career-defining moments, each story offers a glimpse into their unique journey.
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Bo wanted more than just a job after graduating. He wanted a head start and a space where he could grow into it.
Moving beyond theory
After completing his Master’s in Computer Science at TU Delft, Bo was ready for something different.
“Theoretical knowledge is important,” he says, “but I wanted to see how things actually work in practice.” When Harvest reached out, the idea immediately resonated. “Working while learning, with guidance along the way...it just made sense.”
Finding the right fit
One thing that stood out early on was how intentional the process felt.
“They (Harvest) really took the time to understand what I was looking for and where I would fit best,” he remembers.
That led him to the Smart Home Battery team within the Asset Management domain. He calls it a "fun puzzle on how all energy & interactions between electronical household devices can best be steered."
Growing in ways you don’t expect
While the technical learning was valuable, it wasn’t what surprised him most. “The soft skills coaching had a bigger impact than I expected,” Bo says. Through one-on-one sessions and small but practical habits, like tracking accomplishments or having regular check-ins, he noticed significant progress in all of his peers.
When things click
For Bo, there wasn’t one defining moment. “Things clicked quite early,” he says. “The program felt sincere, practical, but also thoughtful.”
That combination made it more straightforward to find his footing.
Becoming part of the team
The transition into Essent IT felt natural. “You’re encouraged to take initiative, but it never feels forced.”
From contributing to discussions to hosting sessions on tools like GitHub Copilot, Bo quickly moved from newcomer to active contributor.
Work that feels relevant
What keeps things interesting? “The impact of the work,” he answers. “Home batteries are an important step toward more sustainable energy use.” Being part of that bigger picture adds an extra layer of motivation.
His advice?
“If you’re considering joining Harvest or transitioning to the IT sector, just start with a conversation.” Sometimes, that’s all it takes to open the door!