Paula Świekatun

Junior Test Analyst (Milanówek, Mazowieckie province)

Junior Test Analyst at Cognizant. I am developing my skills in automated testing. I occasionally participate in game testing. My goal is to become a Full Stack Automation Tester.

What are you currently doing professionally? and what do you want to do ultimately?

I am a Junior Test Analyst at Cognizant. I am currently doing a group automated testing project.

What prompted you to take part in the Girls Code Fun Foundation projects?

I was in the process of re-branding myself and was looking for courses related to software testing and programming. At the same time, I was doing postgraduate studies in automated testing. I became interested in courses from Girls Code Fun, and just then there was a recruitment for a Python programming course, which I was just considering in my development path.

“Be inspired, ask around, network – but never compare yourself to others.”

What skills or knowledge did you gain during the program?

What skills or knowledge did I passI learned the basics and understood exactly what programming is, specifically programming in Python. I went through all the steps, how to write code and what functions are. I found out that it’s not that complicated.did you get around during the program?

What motivated you to continue participating in the project? What were the biggest challenges you had to overcome?

As a rule – I like to finish things I start. Since I had learned the basics of programming, I wanted to try my hand at an advanced course. I was motivated by a desire to grow and a curiosity to learn about new topics related to IT, which is such a capacious industry.

What was the most valuable experience for you in working with us?

In general, the concept and conduct of the courses. Also the contact with the female students. Nice and supportive atmosphere in the workshops. A lot of knowledge and practical exercises to add to the portfolio. It is very valuable.

How has the program affected your professional or educational future?

I think it’s a good idea to show off your completed course on LinkedIn. Taking courses and meeting people at a similar stage of learning is very supportive and edifying. Active development and conscious choice of educational path prove a lot about a future or potential employee, so it’s definitely worth learning and trying new things. Who knows, maybe that’s what will earn you points in the future?

What do you consider to be your greatest success in terms of using the Foundation’s support?

I got my dream job in a very good company and I am very happy about it. For me, this is a huge success achieved through a hard and long road of education in various courses, as well as postgraduate studies. I think the combination of all these experiences has positively influenced my future in the industry, where I am and what I think about my role in the TECH world.

Are you more confident in your IT and technology skills now?

Yes, although I still have a lot of work and learning ahead of me 🙂 No less I am many steps ahead, which gives me the power to act.

What are your plans for the future?

I think it’s good to have ambitious plans and goals. Even if you don’t achieve 100% or 50%, you will still achieve a lot. It’s important to divide these plans into smaller tasks and in moments of fatigue or doubt (feeling the imposter syndrome) take stock of what you’ve already done. I guarantee you – you’ll be surprised how much you’ve accomplished to be where you are now. Draw inspiration, ask around, make contacts, but don’t compare yourself to others. It really helps you to keep moving forward.

And what would you like to achieve in the coming year, given what you have learned with the support of Girls Code Fun?

I want to further develop myself in automated testing. I am currently pursuing an educational path in the company. I’ve completed a postgraduate course in automated testing and I’m setting further goals, which I’m systematically pursuing. I hope this is just the beginning of my career in IT.

What advice would you give to other girls who are considering taking part in Girls Code Fun Foundation projects?

If you’re wondering, there’s clearly a need. And if there is a need, take the chance!