After spending many years in the same professional field, the desire for change often arises. However, taking that leap can feel like a step into the unknown. After a decade of service in the Lithuanian Armed Forces, Povilas Verbyla decided to pursue a career change. He chose CodeAcademy’s Cybersecurity course, where he gained valuable knowledge and discovered his place in the IT industry. Today, Povilas is successfully working as a Junior Cybersecurity Specialist at ADWISERY.
Junior Cybersecurity Specialist @ADWISERY
What was your work experience before joining CodeAcademy?
I spent a decade serving as an officer in the Lithuanian Armed Forces. I would describe my experience as a combination of leadership and management skills, particularly in people and operations management.
Why did you choose to study at CodeAcademy?
I had been receiving CodeAcademy newsletters for a while, and one day, I came across an advertisement for this course. It immediately caught my attention, and I decided to take the leap.
What were your initial goals when you decided to study at CodeAcademy?
My main goal was to change careers and transition into the IT field.
How did you stay motivated during challenging moments—both while studying and job hunting?
Motivation isn’t something that lasts forever—everyone loses it at some point. The key is to remember why you started and accept that burnout is a natural part of the learning process. Sometimes, all it takes is a day or two off to clear your mind and come back with renewed focus and determination.
What did you do to land your first job?
I was actually approached by the company where I ended up working. Since they collaborated with CodeAcademy, they received my CV and contact details through the academy, and that’s how the opportunity came about.
What advice would you give to those looking to switch careers?
Embrace being a beginner and don’t be afraid to start over—even if you have years of experience in another field. Every new beginning is a chance to grow and learn something valuable. Stay open to change, and the right opportunities will follow!
