Julia Czosnek
student, software development intern
I am a student of Computer Science at Warsaw University of Technology. I specialize in artificial intelligence. I’m about to start working as a STEP Intern at Google – this is a great honor for me and motivation for further development. I like to learn by doing, which is why I’m involved in the Golem Artificial Intelligence Science Society, where I value teamwork and practical challenges. I have always been curious about the world and new people, and my openness allows me to easily network and learn from others. I try to combine my studies, passions and various activities, which teaches me good organization and perseverance. In my free time I reach for books on neuroscience and psychology. I am learning Spanish and French – I believe that continuous development is the key to satisfaction, both professionally and personally.
Julia you are a graduate of the 1st edition of STEAM Academy. What are you currently involved in?
I am currently studying Computer Science at the Warsaw University of Technology. Starting in my fifth semester I will specialize in Artificial Intelligence, and in my sixth semester I will go on an Erasmus at Universidad Politécnica de Madrid. This month I also start an internship as a STEP Intern at Google – a dream come true that has been with me since the beginning of my IT adventure.
What prompted you to participate in the Girls Code Fun Foundation project?
The announcement about the GCF project came to me thanks to my computer science teacher. She sent it to the class – I decided to give it a try. Although we had a solid program in computer science at school, it lacked topics such as frontend, design or preparation for entering the IT job market. I took it as an opportunity to grow in directions I hadn’t explored before.
What skills and knowledge did you gain during the STEAM Academy program?
Really broad. From frontend to backend, through databases, soft skills or graphics. I certainly created my first website and learned how to use Canva. Although I’m not currently working on the frontend professionally, the skills I learned then proved useful for my college projects. In turn, Canva has become my primary tool for all design-related tasks – from creating presentations to preparing resumes.
Often it is the courage to try that opens the door to amazing experiences and growth.
Biggest challenges during the project?
Let me start with what motivated me to successfully tackle these challenges. It’s a huge passion for IT, which I felt for the first time in a long time. I was happy to devote weekend mornings and afternoons to developing in this area, and sometimes even free time to fine-tune projects. The biggest challenge proved to be reconciling the program with sleepless nights caused by…. friends’ 18th birthday parties.
Has the project changed your approach to technology? Has it influenced your life goals?
Participation in the STEAM Academy solidified my belief that a career in computer science was the path I wanted to take. It was then that I decided to develop myself not only through classes and interest circles in high school, but also to participate in programs focused on practical skills and preparation for the industry. As a result, I started participating in more initiatives aimed at women planning to start a career in IT – which eventually led me to apply to my current university.
Have you participated in the mentoring process? How did working with a mentor affect you? Do you remember it years later?
Working with a mentor was one of the most valuable elements of the entire program for me. Being able to meet a successful woman in the industry was an amazing experience, and learning from her was priceless. My mentor impressed not only with her technical knowledge, but also with her excellent soft skills. This is one of the most positive memories from this period, for which I am extremely grateful.
Are you more confident in your IT and technology skills now?
I definitely gained confidence in my skills, and when I realized my shortcomings, I learned how to develop them effectively. I also realized how to study more effectively – and that if I really cared, I could spend several hours on the weekend fine-tuning a project until I was fully satisfied with it.
What was the most valuable experience for you from this project?
Mentoring, working and learning together with other young women and girls interested in IT. The fact that I was able to grow in such a supportive and inspiring environment made a huge difference to me. The effects are still with me today.
What did you learn immediately after graduating from STEAM Academy?
I completed an introductory course in Java, at the same time developing skills in algorithmics, C++ programming, databases (SQL) and Excel. All this was done in order to best prepare for the baccalaureate in computer science, which I passed with 96%, ranking in the 99th percentile in Poland. As a result, I got into my dream university, where I am currently after the second year. And I’m starting an internship at Google. It all started with a chance I got with Girls Code Fun.
What advice would you give to girls who are considering taking part in Girls Code Fun Foundation projects?
It’s worth applying even if you have doubts and are afraid you won’t get in. The most important thing is not to reject yourself at the very beginning – it is often the courage to try that opens the door to amazing experiences and growth.
