Building a Career in Cloud Engineering : The Journey of an Engineer Trained Between Tunisia and France
On this page :
Interview with Nesrine Guesmi, cloud and DevOps engineer, who looks back on her experience at CESI and shares her journey, from Tunisia to her professional growth in an international environment.
Background and Choice of CESI
Can you introduce yourself and tell us about your background? Why did you choose CESI?
My name is Nesrine. I am a Cloud and DevOps Engineer, currently working at Devoteam, a company specializing in cloud technologies. Prior to this, I worked for about a year and a half at a French startup, where I was responsible for infrastructure, security, cloud, and DevOps activities.
I earned my engineering degree from Tek-Up University in Tunisia, a partner institution of CESI. As part of this partnership, I had the opportunity to complete my final year of studies at CESI.
I chose CESI for its active learning approach, which is very different from traditional academic models. It encourages autonomy, project management, and self-paced learning. We learn through projects and presentations, much like in a professional environment, which is a real strength.
How was your arrival in France?
My arrival went very smoothly thanks to CESI’s support. The academic team and international office handled the logistical aspects, particularly student housing through CROUS, allowing us to focus entirely on our studies.
Integration with both French and international students also went very well.
What challenges did you face?
The main challenge was adapting to the active learning pedagogy, which was different from what I had experienced in Tunisia. However, the tutors are very supportive and understanding, which allowed for a gradual and smooth adaptation.
Academic Experience and Skills Development
How would you describe your experience at CESI and what it brought you?
This experience helped me develop essential skills such as autonomy, the ability to conduct independent research, and teamwork.
CESI’s teaching approach truly prepared me for the professional world, particularly through project-based work and oral presentations.
Do you have a memorable moment from your studies?
One of my most memorable moments was at the end of the semester, when we all spent time together as a group. We realized how meaningful the experience had been for each of us and how strong the bonds we had formed were.
Career Impact and Insights
What impact has this experience had on your career path?
My experience at CESI had a direct impact on my professional integration. During my internship, I was offered a permanent contract (CDI) with the company that hosted me. I worked there for over a year before joining Devoteam, where I now evolve in an international environment, collaborating with teams and clients from diverse backgrounds.
This international exposure and adaptability are partly the result of my experience at CESI.
What are you most proud of today, and what advice would you give to future students?
I am proud to have achieved, in just two years of experience, a level comparable to professionals with four to five years of experience.
The key to my success lies in hard work, as well as in not being afraid of failure: you have to dare to try, learn, and move forward.
I would advise international students to take full advantage of this opportunity. At CESI, students receive excellent support and learn through practical experience. There are challenges, but with dedication and commitment, progress comes quickly.