Name: Laura McCormick
Job title: Front End Software Developer at Bazaarvoice Belfast
University: I got my start in programming five years ago from the Software Engineering conversion course at Queen's University in Belfast.
What does your typical day look like?
I like to start my day by setting some goals of what I plan to achieve. Our stand-ups are at 10am, so I have a chance to catch up with the team on any issues I have before getting stuck into work. On Tuesday and Thursday we just share our stand-up updates over Slack, so it’s easy to get into a good working flow.
What are you currently working on?
One of our screens has just been reimagined, so I’m implementing the new designs in the front end. It means creating some new components, working closely with our back end developers to keep all existing functionality, and trying to leave space for new features.
What inspired you to join this company in particular?
I wanted to work in an environment where learning and personal development were encouraged.
Did you always want to work in the tech industry?
Nope - I originally studied English and Film Studies! I knew a lot of people who had studied Computer Science and were getting great opportunities, so when I heard about the conversion course at Queen's University, it seemed like a great idea. I loved doing a creative degree, but IT is a much better fit for me as a career.
What’s your favourite part about your work?
As a front end developer, I love gradually adding to code to produce something that looks good and does something interesting. The moment when a button you’ve been working on finally does the thing you wanted is always really satisfying!
Who inspired you to work in this field?
As well as knowing people at uni who went on to work in IT, my mum spent most of her career coding. We learned how to make websites together when I was younger, which was really valuable in giving me the confidence to try out a technical role.
What tech gadget could you not live without?
It would have to be the internet for me. How did we ever get around without Google Maps?
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