Backend Software Engineer, HSBC
My story is full of twists and turns – let it be a good sign for those of you who think that certain paths in life are closed to you. I work as a Backend Software Engineer, even though I am a lawyer by education. Today, I don’t limit myself to a single technology; instead, I dive into many different ones because each has something fascinating about it. I love learning new languages and tools, and I often can’t tear myself away from the computer. Outside of work, I love my two cats and am passionate about all kinds of sports. A woman of many interests 🙂
Asia, which Foundation projects did you take part in, and how did they help you land your job as a Backend Software Engineer at HSBC?
Java JUMP was my starting point with you—my springboard. While still a participant, I was invited to the Women in Technology Insight Programme at the HSBC office in Krakow. Motivated by the event, I applied for the Graduate Programme at HSBC. The result? I passed the recruitment process and that’s where I work today. As a fun fact, I actually moved to Krakow for this—I used to live in a completely different part of Poland.
Sounds like the steady execution of a solid plan. Before joining HSBC, did you already have any connection to technology?
I might surprise you, or maybe not – I actually have a legal background. However, after graduating, I changed my path. I was looking for my own direction, something that would be fun but would also allow me to constantly grow. I love learning and challenging myself. I actually enjoy that slight mental spin you get when trying to wrap your head around something complex. I had a feeling that coding could be exactly what I was looking for, but it was still one big question mark. I was self-taught, although a part of me didn’t quite believe that I would actually manage to switch careers.
A better chance to choose your own path? Check it out for yourself instead of listening to other people’s advice and ideas for your life.
Was it Java that stole your programming heart?
Java came into the picture later. Before that, I was working in a different tech stack. Through Java JUMP, I learned the basics of Java and gained knowledge in databases and frameworks—including Spring Boot. I will definitely be putting some of these concepts into practice during my projects at work.
Alright, so when was your ‘aha’ moment—when you realized you wanted to grow your career specifically at HSBC? A lot of people find themselves at that crossroads of ‘what’s next?’…
Definitely during the Women in Technology Insight Programme event at the HSBC office in Krakow. I really liked the atmosphere of the place and the team—on one hand, it was relaxed and friendly, but on the other, it offered real opportunities for growth and working on innovative projects.
What did you gain from participating in this event? What convinced you to move to Krakow and put all your eggs in one basket? That’s a bold move.
It’s the kind of courage you find when you feel that a new place offers exactly what you need. And that’s exactly what I felt. At the event, I had the chance to talk to other girls planning to apply to HSBC, as well as people who were already working there. I just felt that it was a great place to grow.
The event gave me something that no program description on social media or an employer’s website ever could—it allowed me to see the organization from the inside and understand what I would actually be doing after a successful hiring process. I also met tons of girls with different backgrounds and different plans for themselves. It was a fantastic opportunity to exchange experiences. The atmosphere completely won me over. Ultimately, it was a mix of many factors that brought me to where I am today.
What does your role as a software engineer look like today?
Every day, I feel like I’m learning something new. It requires commitment, but I also feel like I’m given the right tools to succeed. I work in an international team and am currently onboarding into a project that relies on both backend and DevOps technologies.
A year ago, did you ever think that this job could actually be yours?
Honestly, I wasn’t sure if my knowledge was enough to land a job at HSBC. I was worried that the recruitment process would overwhelm me. But with each passing day, I feel more and more confident. I think my drive to grow gives me an edge—I feel that with the help of the people and tools I’ve been given, I can achieve a whole lot. Since participating in the event, I’ve also received a ton of support in building my soft skills and completed many valuable workshops, for which I’m truly grateful to my employer. I didn’t expect how much they would boost my everyday confidence.
To wrap things up—what would you say to girls who are currently looking for their own path, a career, and fulfillment in IT?
I would definitely say: girls, don’t give up. The tech world is complex and fast-paced—very often, you will feel overwhelmed and lost. However, focus on small steps and steady, consistent growth. Stay curious about what you’re learning, and try to understand each concept deeply, rather than just scratching the surface with definitions. Coding is awesome, and it’s worth knowing what goes on under the hood. Even in the era of AI, understanding programming is incredibly important. If you are at a point where you’re looking for your place—come to an event. It completely changed my perspective because I was able to feel for myself what it would be like here. No outside suggestions or unsolicited advice. I showed up, took advantage of the opportunity, and made my decision. I wish the exact same for all of you.
Asia, thank you for a concrete conversation. You are a role model for our audience.
If Asia’s path sounds good to you—join the event and start your own story. Details and registration below.
