Phelippe Souza-Herod ’21, a Florida Polytechnic University computer engineering graduate, works as a software engineer at global technology giant Microsoft in Atlanta, Georgia.
Phelippe Souza-Herod ’21 is rocketing toward his professional goals as a software engineer at Microsoft in Atlanta, Georgia. The computer engineering graduate has found success in the dynamic world of technology, working with Microsoft's Azure division.
“I love my job so much. It still feels a little like a dream to be able to do what I always wanted at one of the best places in the world to do it,” he said.
This position follows an earlier consulting position at Deloitte, a leading global accounting and professional services firm. He said although that competitive position was an excellent opportunity, he wanted to move toward software engineering.
At Microsoft, Souza-Herod’s work includes coding, cloud deployment, and addressing a range of projects.
"It's a nice balance of tech work with great benefits and work-life balance," he said.
This includes working from home four days a week and having ample time to pursue his rock-climbing hobby in places like Atlanta and Chattanooga, Tennessee.
Souza-Herod said his growth from a Florida Poly student to a software engineer at Microsoft is a testament to the solid foundation he built during his time at the University. Donning an ever-present bandana throughout his years at Florida Poly, he actively networked across campus, honing his skills inside and outside the classroom.
He said his passion for mathematics led him to engage with professors who became mentors, and he immersed himself in various clubs, programs, and organizations that contributed to his development as a communicator and leader.
“Students should take advantage of the fact that you can try anything at Florida Poly – they should try out as many things as possible in their first years," Souza-Herod said.
As he barrels toward a strong, successful future, he said the projects he undertook at Florida Poly played a crucial role in preparing him for the challenges of his current role.
"A lot of it was that the projects I did helped me understand how to connect pieces together,” Souza-Herod said. "Today, a lot of my work is less about building one thing and more about how pieces come together."
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