From Physics to Software Engineering – building a non-traditional career path

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The Odyssey from Physics to Software Engineering

Welcome to my journey into the world of tech. I’m Anastasia Manner, a software engineer at Quantum Black. Today, I'd like to share my story from physics to software engineering. It involves self-exploration, countless learning experiences, failures, and successes. Let's dive into the fascinating path I underwent to become the tech professional that I am today.

Start of the Journey: Choosing the Right University Course

Coming from a first-generation Ghanian family in Southeast London with a low socio-economic background, choosing a technical subject at university was akin to breaking barriers. Like many children of migrant parents, I was given a template to follow - excel in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) subject and find a stable, well-paying job. With a natural inclination towards maths and problem-solving, I was drawn to physics. My love for understanding how things interact with each other, led to university studies in physics.

The Turn Towards Coding

Entering the world of coding seemed like jumping from the Bronze Age to the Industrial Revolution. While studying physics modules at university, I was introduced to Python, a coding language. To my surprise, I found joy in utilizing a programming language to solve equations and build processes. Despite finding it intriguing, the decision to transform it into a career wasn't immediate.

The Hard Reset: Master's Project and Code-Based Master's Degree

As the final year of university approached, I realized I needed to narrow down my interests. Noticing that I had very little experience in coding, I decided to dive in one more time. My master's project was my leap of faith into code; an algorithm-heavy, Python-based research component. It was difficult, but also gratifying. By the end of the project, it was clear to me: software engineering was my path.

Entering the World of Software Engineering

After graduation, the transition into software engineering required patience, persistence, and a significant amount of networking. With less coding experience compared to others in my field, I had to utilize every trick in the book. That boiled down to:

  • Applying to grad schemes.
  • Reaching out to people associated with companies I was interested in through LinkedIn.
  • Getting my work reviewed by professionals in careers offices.
  • Attending career fairs and company expos.
  • Utilizing all non-technical experience.

After an intriguing journey marked with countless hours of job applications, preparations, networking, and taking full advantage of my non-technical experiences, I finally started my software engineering career at a bank. As part of the role, I received three months of intensive training in Java and then dove into day-to-day coding work.

The Mentorship and Personal Growth

Transitioning from a physics background into software engineering demanded a significant amount of after-hours learning. Fortunately, I had a mentor, manager, and a supportive team who guided me on my journey. They underlined the importance of constantly expanding my knowledge beyond office hours. From HackerRank, LeetCode, to YouTube learning and personal investment in learning the fundamentals of computer science, every bit contributed to my growth.

Pursuing AI and Machine Learning

As I settled into the world of engineering, I felt an itch to take on more analytical problems. I decided to explore the fields of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML). I found the opportunity to advance my understanding of AI and ML through a master's course at Queen Mary, London, sponsored by the Office of AI and Quantum Black. I jumped at the chance and was fortunate enough to be selected for both the course and sponsorship.

Quantum Black: A Blend of Creativity, AI, and ML

The master's course gave me a sound foundation in AI and ML. I found an opportunity to blend creativity and learning in AI through my master's project, which focused on procedurally generating platform levels in augmented reality using genetic algorithms. Following this, I landed an internship at Quantum Black which converted into a full-time role as a Software Engineer. I now utilise AI and ML in my job, making my path even more exciting.

Key Takeaways

Reflecting on my unique journey, I want to share some tips and tricks that I wish someone had told me early on:

  1. Cultivate your non-technical hobbies; they could be your way into an interview.
  2. Look for technical schemes, internships, and educational opportunities.
  3. Choose mentors you genuinely connect with.
  4. Keep a study schedule and stick to it for focused learning.
  5. Prioritize a healthy lifestyle; it contributes tremendously to your cognitive capacity.
  6. Enhance your LinkedIn profile; it's your online resume.
  7. Learn one codign language well.
  8. Be flexible and ready to adapt to new situations.

Conclusion

So, that's my tale. From a low socio-economic, first-generation Ghanian background to a software engineer specialising in AI and ML - it has been quite a ride. I hope my story inspires you, proves that passion and dedication can transform dreams into reality, and emboldens you to take the road less travelled.


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