My journey through tech

Reflecting on my path through tech, from first commits to building meaningful solutions

The First Line

My journey into software engineering began not with a grand vision, but with curiosity. During my high school years in Kazakhstan, I discovered that computers could do more than just run programs – they could be instructed to create new ones. That realization sparked a passion that would shape my future.

Learning to Learn

University introduced me to formal computer science, but the real education happened in hackathons and late-night coding sessions. Every project, whether successful or not, taught me something valuable. Looking back, I appreciate those moments of frustration that led to breakthroughs.

The Corporate Classroom

At J.P. Morgan, I learned that software engineering isn't just about writing code – it's about solving real problems. Working on DEI initiatives and infrastructure automation showed me how technology can create meaningful impact. Each challenge pushed me to grow not just as a coder, but as a problem solver.

The Side Projects That Shaped Me

Between internships and classes, I built projects that mattered to me: an Android app for HKBU volunteers, a real-time Python learning platform. These weren't just portfolio pieces – they were expressions of my belief that technology should serve a purpose beyond itself.

The Present and Future

Today, I am building my skills through projects!

Key Learnings

1. Technical excellence is just the beginning. The best solutions come from understanding the human side of the problem.

2. Embrace the unknown. Every new technology I've learned has opened unexpected doors.

3. Build with purpose. The most satisfying projects are those that solve real problems for real people.

4. Community matters. The tech community has been instrumental in my growth, whether through hackathons, open source, or mentorship.

Looking Forward

As I continue this journey, I'm excited about the possibilities ahead. Technology is evolving rapidly, but the fundamentals remain: curiosity, persistence, and a desire to make a positive impact.

The code I write today may be different from my first programs, but the motivation remains the same – to create something meaningful, to solve interesting problems, and to keep learning every step of the way.