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Adrienne Braganza Tacke
Senior Developer Advocate, MongoDB
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There is no STEM uniform. You don't have to look a certain way, have a particular set of hobbies to be taken seriously, or use specific tools to pursue a career in STEM.
WHAT DO YOU DO?
I break down technical concepts into manageable pieces that developers of all levels can understand and relate to. This can be done in a variety of ways! Sometimes, it's creating an engaging conference talk that inspires and enlightens. Other times, it's a thorough tutorial on a blog post, where a solid understanding of the topic is the goal. And so much more. Using my creativity and the tools at my disposal, I try my best to create engaging and educational content for developers!
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THIS FIELD?
Honestly? Because when I went to look for a job during college (to help pay off those student loans!) a student position at the university's IT department paid the most! That initial job was crucial, however, in setting the path for my future career in software development, one that was never in my sights to begin with.
As a Filipino, I'm sure other Filipinos can relate when they feel that a career in the medical field is just not for them; it certainly wasn't for me, despite it being a common field many Filipinos enter at the behest of their parents! By finding this student job, I was exposed to the problem solving nature of certain tech jobs and that's what eventually led me to try out a software developer internship in the middle of my collegiate career. I fell in love with the job ever since.
WHAT DO YOU LOOK AT & THINK, "I WISH YOUNGER ME WOULD HAVE KNOWN THIS WAS POSSIBLE?"
Writing a programming book for kids! I would have laughed! It was one of the hardest things I've ever done in my career, but so worthwhile and one of my proudest accomplishments.
WHY DO YOU LOVE WORKING IN STEM?
I love that there's always something new to learn, and that the work I do can have a direct impact on many people. I wake up looking forward to the latte I make every morning which prepares me for the day's challenges!
BEST ADVICE FOR NEXT GENERATION?
There is no STEM uniform. You don't have to look a certain way, have a particular set of hobbies to be taken seriously, or use specific tools to pursue a career in STEM. You do have to be passionate, disciplined, and like problem solving!
INSPO / FUN FACT
Well done better than well said.