An interview with Dror Maor, C# & SQL Server Backend Developer – Ramat Beit Shemesh, Israel
Tell us a little bit about your background and your life.
I lived in Detroit, Michigan for 15 years. I then made aliyah and have been in Israel for 13 years.
I spent years in yeshiva and kollel, before entering the computer programming field. I’ve worked in technology for the past 23 years and have enjoyed it from the beginning.
Where do you live?
I live in Ramat Beit Shemesh, Israel
What field of technology do you work in?
C# & SQL Server
What got you interested in technology? Did you always want to work with computers?
I always like problem-solving and debugging is certainly that.
Were your family and friends supportive?
Yes, very much so.
Did you attend a college or study program? If yes, which one and why did you choose that specific program?
I attended a frum college in Detroit (MJI) and got my degree there. Their format of weeknight classes allowed me to maintain a normal life, including working and spending time with my family.
What were 3 things you were looking for in a study program?
I wanted a program that was accredited, had a good name and would accommodate my frum lifestyle.
In what way has your degree/study helped you in your life?
It helped me build up experience towards my first job which in turn allowed me to continue on to more advanced positions.
Do you think your degree was instrumental in finding a job and did it impact the level of your salary?
Yes, for sure.
Where do you work?
I was working at Bank Leumi until the Coronavirus caused many layoffs there.
How do you straddle the work/life balance?
I set priorities and try to follow them.
What challenges did you face when you first entered the tech world?
In America, there were some issues with anti-Semitism, and some bosses didn’t like that I left early on Fridays. But once I proved that I could complete the workload expected of me, they were fine with it.
What lessons have you learned?
The more effort you invest in your job, the more your boss and colleagues will respect you.
What advice & tips would you offer for those entering the tech field?
Always keep on improving your skills, even though it means taking time outside of work to do so.