“People often assume that if you study computer science engineering, you will be stuck behind a computer writing codes all day. But in reality, the possibilities in this field are endless and the opportunities are huge. A career in STEM offers versatility and lets you choose many different roles and paths that you are passionate about.”
That’s Alka VN, Software Engineer at BYJU’S in the fourth edition of ‘Girls Who Code‘. Our series, where women coders and developers offer a glimpse into their journey in tech and the lessons they have learnt along the way. In this edition, Alka shares how her love for tech led her to BYJU’S, why her mother is her biggest inspiration, and what makes BYJU’S tech culture unique.
Also read: ‘Women In STEM Are Growing’: Sneha Raikar on Why We Need To Make STEM More Accessible
Edited Excerpts
When did you know you wanted to work in tech?
As a kid, I loved solving math puzzles. So studying computer science engineering in college was a natural choice. I was also a part of the robotics club in college but programming was something I thoroughly enjoyed. After graduating, I landed a role as a software engineer at BYJU’S.
Here, I am responsible for developing new features on our website and revamping the older ones. A part of my role also involves collaborating with other teams around building new learning products or rebuilding the existing ones.
What aspect of tech excites you the most?
For me, the most fascinating aspect of tech is problem-solving. Tech isn’t just about coming up with great ideas. One needs to work in technology to explore how those ideas will work in the real world. This gives you the opportunity to really make a difference by solving real-world problems. I am also inspired by the people I work with and the impact we create by working on products that touch millions of lives.
What are some of the misconceptions about this career path?
I think people have this idea that software engineers spend their day behind a computer, writing codes all day. But a great part of the role also involves collaborating with teams. This could also mean solving problems in web applications, helping other developers on a project and being a team player.
Who is your biggest inspiration?
My mother! I vividly remember she decided to do a PhD when I was 15 years old. That was really a tough time for her, managing her job as a librarian and research work. She would stay up late in the night to study and complete her assignments. She worked extremely hard and never gave up on her responsibilities as a mother. She taught us that we can achieve anything if we put our mind into it.
Any tips for those aspiring to join BYJU’S?
Believe in yourself, especially during hard times and failures. If you don’t believe in yourself, then it doesn’t matter how talented or hard working you are. You need to get past the fear of failure to grab the opportunities that comes your way.
Like what you read? Head to Life at BYJU’S to learn more about our work, people, and the stories that make us unique. To explore job opportunities, check out Careers at BYJU’S.
Damini is passionate about photography and travelling. She is happy to have her camera in hand to click random pictures. Always searching for answers about the chaos around her, she spends most of her time reading and learning new things. She also loves listening to music but is a pathetic singer herself. From being a journalism student to working with several media houses, she hopes to keep narrating compelling stories all her life. Write to her at damini.goel@byjus.com or storyweavers@byjus.com. BYJU'S
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