From Textbooks to Tech: Meet Siam

As if Siam B., a learner in Bangladesh, wasn’t busy enough preparing for his Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) exam, he decided to dedicate a portion of his time to building practical skills so he’d get one step closer to his dream of working in tech. “My ultimate goal is to blend technology with human understanding,” he shared.  

In Bangladesh, the HSC exam is a high-stakes test that represents the culmination of a student’s higher secondary education (equivalent to the 11th and 12th grades in the United States). The results determine their eligibility to sit for university admissions tests. 

Despite the pressure of his upcoming exams, Siam set about enrolling in the Google IT Support Professional Certificate on Coursera. “I wanted to gain practical, job-ready skills that would open the door to opportunities at top technology companies. Completing Google’s Professional Certificate was my first step.” 

Not only did Siam gain tangible skills from his time learning IT Support, but he also found that the experience fueled his curiosity. “It has motivated me to continue learning and take on new challenges, and confidently aim for roles at top technology companies,” he said. 

Siam spoke with Coursera about what he learned from the Google IT Support Professional Certificate, how he balanced learning with his HSC prep, and what he has his sights on next.

What have you enjoyed about learning in the past?

I’ve always loved exploring new ideas beyond the textbook. What I enjoy most about learning is discovering practical applications—how theories translate into real-life impact. 

And what have you enjoyed about learning with Google? 

I loved the clarity of instruction, hands-on labs, and the way Google’s instructors explained complex technical concepts in simple terms. Each quiz and assignment made me feel more capable of handling IT support tasks independently.

I loved the clarity of instruction, hands-on labs, and the way Google’s instructors explained complex technical concepts in simple terms.

What skills have you strengthened in the program?

I’ve strengthened my skills in technical support, computer hardware, system software, Linux, networking, and customer communication. I also improved my technical documentation and problem-solving skills, which I now apply daily in personal projects and freelancing.

How did you fit learning into your busy schedule?

I created a structured daily schedule that allowed me to study for 1–2 hours after my HSC preparation sessions. Seeing real progress in my technical skills kept me motivated. Plus, the Google instructors’ encouragement and the interactive quizzes made learning fun and achievable. Consistency, not intensity, helped me succeed.

Consistency, not intensity, helped me succeed.

Have you experienced any kind of impact from what you’ve learned?

Google has made me more confident and career-ready. I now feel equipped with the technical foundation to apply for entry-level IT roles and to continue toward advanced fields like cybersecurity. More importantly, it taught me self-discipline, persistence, and the mindset of lifelong learning.

Has anything surprised you during your time learning with Google?

I was pleasantly surprised by how approachable and interactive the learning process was. Even though it’s an online course, I felt fully supported. The discussion forums and peer engagement made it feel like being part of a global classroom.

What do you want to do next?

I plan to continue learning cybersecurity and cloud computing and eventually earn a bachelor’s degree in IT or computer science abroad. My goal is to work for a top tech company where I can apply my skills, keep growing professionally, and one day help other young learners in my country start their tech journeys through online education.

Do you have any advice for others who want to learn IT support? 

Stay consistent and take full advantage of the hands-on labs and practice exercises. Even if you’re starting from zero, trust the process and keep pushing forward every day. Don’t just watch the videos—actively practice the skills you learn.

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*Individual experiences and outcomes can vary, and Coursera does not guarantee job interviews or job placements upon completion of its courses.