Becoming a programmer is not hard given the many educational resources you can access on the web (if you don’t want to pursue formal education). But what does it take to become a successful programmer?
We invite you to find out in this #KeysightLife interview with Ana, a Program Manager at Keysight Technologies Romania.
What projects are you proud to have been a part of?
One of my favourite projects was Ixia Day not only because I discovered my passion for public speaking, but also because I learned to create interactive and creative PowerPoint presentations - usually an area which presents less interest to the programming world.
On the other hand, every project I am coordinating as Program Manager makes me proud to be part of due to its dynamic rhythm.
How does a typical day in your life at work look like?
I organize my “to do” list in the morning after reviewing my emails and notes taken during the previous day. Meetings? Tasks? Woohoo, yes! But I grab a coffee and I am ready to work on speeding up the projects.
What do you think a programmer’s top priority should be?
Maybe this is a cliché, but I do believe that in order to succeed a programmer has to practice his/her coding skills every day. Practice, practice, practice.
If you could choose to work on a project to make the world a better place, what would that be?
I would like to create an algorithm which detects fake news and makes people aware of them.
What are some of your hobbies?
Cooking is one of my hobbies - this activity enjoys my friends as well. Besides that, swimming and skydiving.
If you were to start over your career as a programmer tomorrow, what path would you choose?
Data Science without any doubts!
What should a programmer expect from this career?
A lot of opportunities based on experience, not to mention the flexible timetable.
If you were stranded on an island and asked to do your job with only three things, what would you choose?
A chocolate cake, 1 bottle of juice and of course … a laptop with an internet connection
What attributes/skills make a programmer successful?
To be able to implement ideas in a structured form (readable code)
How do you get “in the zone”? Hyperfocused, not to be disturbed, only you and the code.
At a first glance, I would say that my motivation keeps me focused. Also, the more difficult and challenging the task is, the more focused I become.
Keysight Life is a series of interviews where we put a spotlight on different projects, with the help of the people who made those projects possible.