Junior Software Engineer, Graduate Programme HSBC
Hi, I’m Asia, a Java and Spring enthusiast. After graduating with a degree in chemistry, I decided to change my career path, and that’s how my adventure with programming began. I enjoy finding solutions, analyzing problems, and turning ideas into working code. I constantly strive to grow and look for new challenges. Besides programming, I love playing board games and solving puzzles.
They say curiosity is the first step to hell. But in your case?
Quite the opposite. All my life, curiosity has been leading me by the hand, if I can put it that way. In my case, curiosity led me to a significant place professionally—I am currently in the Graduate Programme at HSBC as a Junior Software Engineer. This is exactly where I wanted to be.
Have you always had a tech-savvy streak?
Not exactly. I don’t think that will surprise your community, as it is made up of women from many different backgrounds. I am a chemist by training. However, shortly after graduation, I decided to change my career path. After some reflection, I realized that I’ve always enjoyed analyzing problems and searching for solutions, so programming naturally drew me in.
Women in Technology Insight Programme -this was the beginning of my IT journey and the moment I started to believe in myself.
And how did it happen that you chose Girls Code Fun as a place for your self-development?
I was looking for a supportive place where you could ask a question without being judged. I was just starting out, and it was important to me that the environment was friendly. The Foundation’s projects looked exactly like that—accessible and safe for a beginner. I started following your activities and applying for specific projects.
And you qualified for several of them over time. What did you gain from them, Asia?
I must admit that the mentoring program was a great way for me to practice my English. Dealing with a foreign language, I had to learn to think in English and develop my algorithmic problem-solving skills in that language. This built both my linguistic confidence and my self-esteem. It was a challenge that, in hindsight, I consider a fantastic opportunity to practice the language that makes life much easier in a corporate environment.
On the other hand, in the Real-Time Order Tracker project, I tackled a large-scale Java project. I analyzed and tested the application independently. I gained a project for my portfolio—that’s more valuable than a diploma!
That sounds like a huge step. What was the most important thing for you during those processes?
Since I was in the middle of a career change, I desperately needed support and direction. Participating in these projects ensured that I didn’t give up—which is an art in itself. Anyone who has been in that position probably knows exactly what I mean. Working with a mentor allowed me to open up and feel more confident in the world of technology. It was the start of my IT journey and the moment I truly began to believe in myself. Thanks to these experiences, I feel much more confident in both my technical and soft skills. I also have immense motivation to keep growing.
We’re so glad to hear that. A very important question, as reflecting on it can give you a real boost: what do you consider to be your greatest success?
I always approach the word “success” with caution. But I understand the intent behind the question. I got into the Graduate Programme at HSBC. That was the moment I realized that the switch from chemist to IT was truly worth the effort. It took time, work, commitment, and the circumstances I encountered on my way to finding my place—all of which bring me great joy.
And why FIN-TECH specifically? Were you also focused on finance? Is it a combination of liking both industries, or just a coincidence?
Technology was number one, and when you think ‘finance’… you see processes, order, and deliberate thought instead of ad hoc actions. That aligns with what I value in programming. The icing on the cake for my decision was participating in an event I attended in Kraków. My current employer organized it. I had applied to the HSBC Graduate programme earlier, and I was invited to that event in September. I met a team of incredibly kind people from HSBC, and the workshop-based approach showed me that this place was for me. And that’s how this professional chapter in my still quite young life began.
And finally – what would you say to the girls who are currently looking for their path, their job, and their joy in IT?
Don’t be afraid. Be honest, be open, ask a lot of questions, and choose your workplace consciously. Testing things out is okay, but it’s a waste of time to choose places that aren’t supportive. If you’d like to copy my path—go for it. The Foundation’s projects and the HSBC event in Kraków are initiatives close to my heart. Today, I feel secure on this path. I wouldn’t give any other recommendations!
Asia, thanks for the optimism and for the conversation. We’re keeping our fingers crossed for your next steps!
If Asia’s path sounds good to you, join the event and start your own journey. Details and registration on the Women in Technology Insight Programme button below.
