Jasmine Sanaee moved from her hometown of Tehran, Iran to Fredericton to attend UNB in 2008 where she completed her MSC in computer science.
“UNB has a really good computer science program that's recognized internationally,” says Sanaee. “What appealed to me was that UNB's computer science faculty helps connect students to the industry through co-op work placements and with helping students with job search after graduation.”
Sanaee has worked in the IT industry for about a year and a half, and will be starting a new position as a software developer with Audience View in Toronto.
When you were growing up, did you ever consider a career in information technology (IT)?
No. I was like all the other students and had a negative mentality towards computer science. I liked math and physics in high school but I didn't specifically consider IT as a career option. I was thinking perhaps engineering.
Why did you decide to pursue a career in IT? What or who inspired you?
When I was deciding to go to university there wasn't as much information or insight about what each career field would end up in terms of jobs. However, my dad who is an economist could see the flow in the job market and he told me that IT had the potential to be a dominant career field in the future.
What is a software developer?
Basically, a software developer is someone who designs and implements software for different purposes. The software system could be software individuals use for their personal computers, cell phone apps, or software for business or organizations' use. Software development is part of the IT industry.
What kind of education or training is needed to become a software developer?
You could either go to college or get a degree from university. You could also take classes and start working and build your experience.
What is a typical day at work like for you? What types of tasks/duties does a software developer do?
No two days are similar in software development. There are various tasks involved and you work as part of a team to complete projects.
Typically, you're going to be in a lot of meetings because it's all about brainstorming ideas on projects with your colleagues. It's all about problem-solving – the client will give you a problem and your job is to find a solution for it.
After we brainstorm, we would come up with a design (“software architecture”). I would then review the design and start programming. Next comes testing the design which is usually done in two parts – one part done by the development team and the other part by the quality assurance team. From there, we get feedback and modify the design and software if needed before releasing the software.
This is more or less the whole project process, so on any given day I could be working on any part of this.
Are there any myths or misconceptions about your job that you'd like to dispel?
Yes! Everyone is usually surprised when I tell them that I'm a software developer. Most people seem to have a negative stereotype of IT workers. They have this impression that IT workers are people with messy hair writing code in their basements and that's just not true. There are many different types of people working in different sectors of the IT industry – it's not all about writing codes.
Have you worked with other women in your field?
No, not really. I know a few but there are not many in the field.
What are some of the challenges in your job?
First of all, it's a very male dominated environment which might be a challenge in the beginning especially when it comes to your style of thinking and leadership. Also, there are few female mentors or role models to learn from or represent IT in a positive way to young girls. The job itself is challenging because it's all about problem solving.
What do you enjoy most about your job? What excites you about going to work every day?
It's challenging and it's very diverse. I enjoy so many things about my job. It's full of opportunities and you're never stuck in one role. You have the opportunity to be exposed to other industries and disciplines in your work so you're never limited to one area (ie. health care, forestry, etc.).
Technology and our world are evolving, and there are many opportunities for growth and change. There are jobs that didn't exist 10 years ago. Today I may do software implementation, but I could also be a business analyst in the future.
What kinds of qualities or skills are needed to be a good software developer?
You have to be a good problem solver. You have to be able to handle difficulties and challenges along the way. You should be a good team player.
What would you say is a personal career achievement you are most proud of?
I'm proud of my community work in helping to promote IT as a career option to youth. My network of women in IT, and myself started a group called “NB Women in ICT” to connect high school and university students to professional women who work in IT. We work with UNB and other organizations to help promote IT careers to young students.
What advice would you give to others who are interested in pursuing a career in IT?
Reach out to people who are already working in IT and discuss your interests with them. Ask questions to help with your career decisions. The IT sector is very diverse so you can definitely find something but it's a matter of finding which path will work for you.
What do you believe is the key to success?
I would say hard work. If you want something with all your heart and you work hard, you will achieve it.
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