Moving to a new country. Starting over in a new language. Building a career in one of the most competitive tech environments. From Brazil to Microsoft, discover how EURECOM shaped Silvana’s career. Originally from Brazil, she graduated from EURECOM in 2020 in Data Science. Today, she is a Software Engineer at Microsoft in Rio de Janeiro, working on cutting-edge AI systems such as Copilot and search relevance. But beyond the technical achievements, her story is also about something else: finding your place, far from home, and never feeling alone!
Finding the right balance between theory and real-world impact
Silvana has always been drawn to analytical thinking. With a background combining mathematics, statistics, and some exposure to industry, she knew she wanted to work with data… but not in a purely theoretical environment.
“I was looking for a program that combined strong academic foundations with real-world applications. That’s exactly what I found at EURECOM.”
Interestingly, her application happened at the very last minute. “I applied on the final day, without really believing I would get in. So when I received the acceptance email, it was a real surprise.” At the same time, her life was taking a major turn. At 27, she got married and moved to France… without speaking the language. “It was a real challenge. But also one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.”
A unique experience: excellence and community
At EURECOM, Silvana discovered a high-level academic program, where technical foundations still shape her daily work today.
“The machine learning fundamentals I learned are at the core of everything I do. Even with the rise of new technologies, these basics remain essential.”
But what made the real difference was the learning environment. “The practical approach was incredibly valuable, especially the weekly algorithm labs with continuous assessment. It really prepares you for real working conditions.” And beyond academics, the human experience stood out: “Even now, I’m still in touch with friends from EURECOM. I actually had a friend visiting me in Rio just a few days ago.”
Starting a career in uncertain times
Graduating in 2020 meant entering the job market during COVID, a particularly challenging context. “It was very difficult. There were fewer opportunities, and most companies were asking for experience we didn’t have yet.” To stay in France, Silvana adapted and took a full-stack developer position, a strategic choice that allowed her to gain experience and improve her French. After two years, she decided to return to Brazil and things accelerated quickly. “I started applying and received interest from several companies, including large and important ones.”
She eventually landed a role as a Machine Learning Engineer in a U.S.-based startup working on recommendation systems. Her EURECOM experience played a key role:
“When I presented my semester projects during interviews, I realized how close they were to real industry work. It made a big difference. Also EURECOM taught me resilience. You’re constantly challenged, and you have to keep improving.”
She also highlights the importance of discipline, shaped by demanding professors (Special shout out to Raphael Troncy). “I learned to stay consistent, not procrastinate, and meet deadlines. I still use that every day.”
Building a career in AI at Microsoft
Today, Silvana has been working for nearly four years as a Software Engineer at Microsoft Brazil. Her work focuses on AI-driven products, including Copilot and internal search systems. “My role is to improve search relevance, making systems more efficient and accurate.”
Working in AI means constantly evolving. “Things change extremely fast. New models, new tools, you always have to learn.” In data science and AI, continuous learning is essential.
At Microsoft, learning is built into the culture: “Three times a year, we have dedicated learning weeks to explore new topics and experiment. I watch demos, test tools like Claude, and build small projects. The key is to stay curious.”
Her advice to future EURECOM students
Silvana’s message is simple : “Take full advantage of your time at EURECOM. Not just academically, but personally. Learn from your professors, but also enjoy your life there. Make friends, build connections, create memories!”
And when it comes to careers: “Follow what you love. Even if your first job isn’t perfect, it can lead you to the right path.”
Silvana’s journey shows that with curiosity, perseverance, and the right opportunities, it’s possible to build an international career in AI. Discover her interview on our alumni platform by clicking HERE.
