In this series, we are featuring Team8s who worked at 8x8, left to pursue other interests, and then returned to our team. We’re so excited to welcome back Alexandru Stoica, Senior Quality Assurance Engineer.

8x8: Alexandru, welcome back to the team. To start us off, can you tell us a bit about what you do at 8x8?

Alexandru Stoica (AS): I work as a Quality Assurance Engineer out of our Cluj office [Ed. in Romania] where I am part of the Venus Team, which is the team responsible for developing and maintaining the 8x8 Quality Management and Speech Analytics product.

8x8: Did you always know you wanted to pursue a career in Quality Assurance?

AS: I had some doubts about what career path I was going to take, but I have always been interested in technology and IT in general. Actually, this interest first sparked during an internship I completed at 8x8 while still in college. Then, as I continued to explore this field, my passion for it naturally grew and I simply followed its course.

8x8: What have been some of the most important lessons you’ve learned throughout your career?

AS: I've learned to adapt, but also how to pick up new skills and technologies.

8x8: What encouraged you to return to 8x8?

AS: Being given the chance to rejoin my former Team8s is something I find exciting, especially because I have always enjoyed working with them. Additionally, I have an appreciation for the company culture we have here and the friendly environment that was created among colleagues.

8x8: What did you miss most about working at 8x8?

AS: I missed the social events, all the benefits the company offers, and my team.

8x8: What about when you’re not at work, how do you spend your time?

AS: I enjoy socializing with friends, whether it's simply hanging out or engaging in some friendly video game competition. I’ve also taken up a few hobbies, including photography and DJing.

8x8: What’s something that you’ve always wanted to try or learn (outside of work)?

AS: I have always wanted to learn how to play the guitar, but never got the chance to. I still think about it, as it’s never too late to pick up a new hobby.

8x8: Do you have a favorite dish?

AS: I have a weakness for a well-made burger accompanied by a side of delicious garlic parmesan fries.

8x8: What’s something surprising that not many people know about you?

AS: Hmm, not sure what to say here. Maybe the fact that I’ve been playing the same video game for over 10 years. :)

8x8: What is the most enjoyable or most interesting thing that has happened to you this year?

AS: So far, I'd have to say that my favorite part of the year was the mini vacation my wife and I took during the Easter holidays. We spent some quality time with family and friends in a cozy rural village, which also happens to be my wife's hometown.

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