So you must have known that I have resigned from my position as Academic Developer Evangelist, Microsoft Indonesia. The next question is then where am I heading next? Microsoft Asia Pacific, Singapore? Microsoft Corporation, USA?
My last effective date is July 31, 2008. But I'm taking my leave from July 25, 2008. So, if you want to discuss about Microsoft's academic programs (MIC, DreamSpark, etc.), I suggest you wait until my replacement takes over in August. I've heard that my replacement is from the Indonesian .NET Developers Community too, so he's not a new face.
From July 25-31, I still have my @microsoft.com email, but since I'll be in holiday with my family, response will be very slow (or in worst case: no response). Non-Microsoft related emails, please redirect to my zeddy[AT]live.com email.
Where am I going next? I've decided to learn from the real-world and start my own company. This may sound crazy... 3 years at Microsoft Indonesia, winning the Imagine Cup, the ripple effect following it: Kompas first page, MetroTV e-LifeStyle, audience with Rachmat Witoelar, Ministry of Environment (hopefully after that, SBY)... and you want to leave?
To which I reply:
Now that I'm at the top of the mountain, I see another mountain to climb on. With a hiking rope as long and as strong as my network of friends, and a backpack full of "Microsoft experience", I am excited to start my own journey to climb that mountain.
In 4 days time, you will hear about my company and our first product. ISVs, I don't think I'll be a competition. I'm not building yet another accounting application, or providing customs solution. My first product will be built using Windows Presentation Foundation (WPF) and Windows Workflow Foundation (WF).
Now that I'm no more at Microsoft, I wish to join the multi-talented ranks of Microsoft Most Valuable Professionals (MVPs).
I have 2 closing remarks:
- I think as long as you follow your passion, you will succeed in life. Doesn't really matter where you work, isn't it?
- This is a cool quote from a recent movie ending (hint: the hero can curve bullets), "I'm taking control of my life. What the f*** have YOU done lately?"