My CFGdegree Experience: Neneh Patel, Software Engineering Stream
Get to know Neneh's journey to the CFGdegree!
From training for a half-marathon whilst studying for the CFGdegree to now working as a Data Transformation Manager at Code First Girls (talk about Queen of side quests)! Neneh Patel shares her journey into tech and how she stayed motivated throughout.
Please introduce yourself and what your current role is
Hey, I’m Neneh, a Data Transformation Manager here at Code First Girls. I’ve been with Code First Girls since 2022, where I’ve gone through a few different roles and so much growth!
My original role was actually as a Client Success Manager, where I started out on the external-facing side of things, but I was keen to expand my skillset as I’d always had an interest in coding but had never dedicated the time to complete a longer course. I originally chose the Software specialisation as I wasn’t 100% sure about going into a Data role. Still, after completing the CFGdegree Autumn 2022 cohort, I transitioned into a Data Analyst role in the spring of the following year. Since then I’ve worked on a variety of projects!
What Are Your Hobbies and Interests Outside of Work?
Drawing! I started out at uni studying illustration and, although my current role is completely unrelated, I still like to draw even if it’s just as a personal journal or for when I go on holiday. Also cooking, that’s a big part of my time outside of work – it feels good to have made something and (try to) stay healthy. I have to say I’m also big fan of Bridgerton, and any other cheesy films or TV series too.
Training is continuous - there are definitely plenty of things that I've picked up and revisited since the course.
What Made You Decide to Pursue the CFGdegree?What Are Your Hobbies and Interests Outside of Work?
I felt that Software allowed you to branch out into many different things as I wasn’t sure how I wanted to shape my career after the CFGdegree. Stepping into the Data Analyst role meant additional training and new platforms, for example, Tableau, Looker Studio, BigQuery, and Snowflake.
Training is continuous – there are definitely plenty of things that I’ve picked up and revisited since the course. The main thing to remember is that the CFGdegree is just one part of your coding journey, but for me it was a really important first step into a new role. Prior to the CFGdegree, I completed the Intro to Data Coding Kickstarter course with CFG. That really solidified my desire to learn coding. Partly, I wanted to do the CFGdegree just to see if I was any good at it!
I was also training for a half marathon so it made sense to stick to a schedule for runnung around studies and full-time work.
How Did You Stay Motivated During the CFGdegree?
Routine was so important to me during that time. I was also training for a half marathon so it made sense to stick to a schedule for running around studies and full-time work. I was able to take time back for the course when I could, although sometimes during a busy week it did still feel hectic! Having that support from my manager and wider team off the course was really helpful as it can feel overwhelming. Every other day I’d go for a shorter run on my lunch break, then between finishing a workday and starting the course, I tried to cook or meal prep so I had time away from being on screens 24/7.
What’s a Dream Tech Project You’d Like to Pursue?
I’d love to explore more with creative coding and interactive artwork – and bring together two things I really enjoy. I’ve visited a couple of immersive exhibitions in the past, for example, Frameless and then one about Seoul and Korean art and culture.
What Is Your Favourite Tech Product or Invention?
Wearable tech – I use my Garmin all the time and I am hooked on tracking exercise, although recently the timer is more for measuring cooking times rather than sprinting 😅.
Thank you for sharing neneh!
We are inspired by your story and other projects you’ve been up to along the way! If you would like to connect with Neneh then click here, as well as here to read out other CFGdegree experience blogs.
