At 42 Wolfsburg/Berlin, we witness the remarkable growth of our students as they transition from diverse beginnings to significant roles in the tech industry. Our students’ stories, filled with unique challenges and achievements, truly showcase the breadth and impact of our educational approach. Observing our students navigate their careers, particularly in collaboration with our friends and industry partners, fills us with immense inspiration.

Yuliia’s career path is a powerful example: from launching a startup in Ukraine to becoming an intern at Porsche, she demonstrates just how versatile our students can be.

Today, we delve into Yuliia’s recent experience as an intern at Porsche, discussing her challenges, triumphs, and the invaluable insights she gained along the way.

Interview with Yuliia

Hi Yuliia! Could you say a few things about your previous background before joining 42 Wolfsburg?

Before joining 42 Wolfsburg, I was born and raised in Ukraine. I earned a bachelor’s degree in economics cybernetics but didn’t immediately pursue a career in my field. Instead, I ventured into entrepreneurship with friends, dedicating most of my time to our startup. It was during this time that I discovered my passion for programming while working on our website implementation.

Could you summarise your experience at 42, highlighting what stood out for you?

My experience at 42 was transformative. The school provided me with solid foundational knowledge and a theoretical understanding of programming concepts. What stood out the most was the development of my soft skills, particularly in teamwork and networking, which proved invaluable during my internship at Porsche.

What did a typical day look like for you during your internship at Porsche, and which skills you gained at 42 did you find most valuable?

A typical day at Porsche was dynamic and challenging. We followed agile methodologies, starting each day with a daily stand-up where the team discussed tasks and progress. My responsibilities often involved communication with stakeholders and team members, which meant I had multiple meetings throughout the day. In between meetings, I dedicated time to my assigned tasks, ensuring I delivered on time. The most valuable skills I gained at 42 were the ability to communicate effectively, ask the right questions, and embrace challenges with a problem-solving mindset.

What are your main takeaways from the internship?

The most important lesson I learned during my internship is the power of asking questions and seeking clarification throughout the process. It’s better to ask seemingly “stupid” questions than to risk looking unprepared or uninformed at the end. Additionally, delivering what you promise and building a strong professional network are crucial for success.

Reflecting on your professional journey, what challenges have you faced, and how has your experience at 42 equipped you to tackle them?

One of the main challenges I faced was transitioning from a non-technical background to a career in IT. However, my experience at 42 equipped me with the necessary technical skills, as well as soft skills such as teamwork, communication, and problem-solving, to navigate this transition successfully.

In your view, how does 42’s educational approach stand out from more traditional tech education paths?

42’s educational approach stands out due to its emphasis on peer-to-peer learning and the “no teacher” approach. Collaborating with peers allows students to learn from each other’s experiences and perspectives, while the absence of traditional instructors promotes self-management and independence, fostering a sense of responsibility and autonomy.

What advice would you offer to current and prospective 42 students who might follow in your footsteps?

Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, collaborate with peers, and never hesitate to ask questions. Build a strong professional network and maintain connections, as they often open doors to new opportunities and provide valuable feedback for growth.

As you look ahead, what are your professional goals and how do you see your career evolving?

Looking ahead, my goal is to continue learning and expanding my skill set while building a strong professional network. Ultimately, I aspire to take on leadership roles and eventually become an owner of projects, products, or even a company.

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Yuliia’s journey exemplifies the transformative impact of 42 Wolfsburg’s educational philosophy in the real world. Her experience underscores the value of a learning environment that promotes self-reliance, critical thinking, and hands-on problem-solving skills, equipping students not only for specific roles but also for adapting to and excelling in dynamic professional landscapes. 

This story is a testament to the power of an education that goes beyond the classroom, shaping not just careers but futures.

Interested in starting your own tech journey? Apply Now to join our community.