Getting into tech with a non-STEM background
How can you work in tech with a non-STEM background? Sabina shares how she landed her first tech job via the Coding Kickstarter Classes.
Code First Girls Ambassador Sabina McGovern, Information Technology (IT) Graduate @ Ford Motor Company shares how she pivoted into tech after studying an Anthropology degree. She talks about her inspirations for working in tech, how she overcame obstacles such as impostor syndrome. With no prior tech experience, Sabina reflects on how Code First Girls Coding Kickstarter Classes allowed her to break into the tech industry. She also shares her learning experience with CFG, and her job application tips for other career switchers who wish to work in tech!
To learn more about Sabina’s journey, feel free to connect with her on Linkedin!
THE HOT SIX QUICK FIRE QUESTIONS!
What is your favourite coding language?
I love JavaScript! I enjoy how versatile it is along with the large ecosystem it provides for UI development.
What is your choice of beverage whilst coding?
Always a cold diet coke!
What is your favourite way to destress after a long day of coding?
Grabbing a nice cup of tea, tucked into the sofa with a good book.
What is your comfort food?
Any warm homemade meal (preferably one from my mum’s recipe book)
What is your favourite season?
Autumn girly through and through
What do you listen to whilst you code and where? Spotify, radio, vinyl or fave CD?
“Work with me” videos on YouTube or movies I have watched before as background noise
Hi Sabina, thank you for taking part in this spotlight! Please tell us a bit about yourself and your journey into tech.
Hi! My name is Sabina McGovern. After earning an MA (hons) in Anthropology, I began my journey into tech two years ago. Since then, I’ve completed an MSc in IT and courses like the Code First Girls Introduction to Data and SQL. I now work as an IT graduate at Ford Motor Company with a current rotation role as a Front-end Software Developer. Alongside my day-to-day job, I was inspired to apply for the CFG Ambassador program. I knew this role would enable me to empower other women, advocate for diversity and help contribute meaningfully while giving back to the community.
You have a background in Anthropology! What inspired you to pursue a career in tech?
As I neared the end of my degree in Anthropology, I happened to stumble across an article on the interconnections between Anthropology and Technology which fascinated me. I realised that while I was interested in human experiences, this naturally extended to how technology increasingly shapes our lives and interactions — each becoming more dependent on the other in our modern world.
I fell down the rabbit hole of research, studying UX design and Human Computer interaction, which then expanded onto coding and data science upon the discovery of my interest in all that computer science has to offer.
Although I now work in tech as a developer, I feel that by pursuing a career in tech, I have been able to bridge the gap between both my passions while playing a part in creating new experiences for others.
“It was surprising how much I could learn in such a short time, thanks to the encouraging environment CFG creates.”
Did you encounter any initial challenges or uncertainties whilst pursuing a career in tech? How did you overcome them?
Although I was really motivated and inspired to pursue a career in tech, it did not come without its initial challenges and uncertainties. Without a background in Computer Science, having never taken CS studies further than compulsory at school, I found myself challenged with imposter syndrome and became worried about not having enough knowledge or experience to take me where I wanted to be.
To overcome this, I took the time to acknowledge why I felt like this. Rather than focusing on what I didn’t know, I changed my mindset to thinking about what I did. By doing so I gained a unique perspective which allowed me to realise how my past experiences combined with continuous learning and drive could help me reach my goals. I acknowledge that every person has their own journey, and mine was no less valuable than someone who had been studying CS for years.
Could you share what drew you to apply to the Data and SQL Coding Kickstarter Course?
I was drawn to the Data and SQL Coding Kickstarter Course due to my initial interest in data science and my eagerness to experience a CFG course. I knew that through looking at the learning outcomes that it would provide a solid foundation for SQL and analysing data.
“Despite being short and snappy, the course offered a comprehensive overview of SQL, making it accessible even if you start with no prior knowledge.”
WHAT WAS YOUR overall experience OF studying the Coding Kickstarter Course? Was there anything that surprised you?
My experience with the Data and SQL Coding Kickstarter Course was incredibly positive. The tutors were amazing and always ready to answer any question, which made the learning process smooth and engaging. Despite being short and snappy, the course offered a comprehensive overview of SQL, making it accessible even if you start with no prior knowledge. The group project at the end was a highlight; I was thrilled when our team won the Highly Commended Candidate award, especially since I knew nothing about SQL before the course.
It was surprising how much I could learn in such a short time, thanks to the encouraging environment CFG creates. For anyone interested, the course is perfect for building foundational skills quickly, making it a great starting point for further exploration into data science.
Congratulations on your role as an IT Graduate @ Ford Motor Company! tell us a bit about your role...
As an Information Technology Graduate at Ford Motor Company, my role involves a variety of tasks that keep me engaged. My days often start with team meetings, such as stand-ups and tech sessions, where we align on tasks and share knowledge. I spend time upskilling and refining my existing skills through side projects, including those focused on user experience and data analytics. I’m also involved in volunteering efforts that aim to bring more women into tech, a cause I’m passionate about.
A recent highlight in my role has been using data analytics to build a report that could reshape how we approach customer experiences. This project has been particularly rewarding as it combines my analytical skills with the opportunity to make a tangible impact on our customer interactions.
Could you share some key tips and insights into your job-hunting process after the CFG Kickstarter Class?
I have a few tips and insights from the job-hunting process I experienced. Firstly, completing the CFG Kickstarter provided a great talking point in interviews, especially regarding teamwork and proactiveness in learning data in a data-driven world.
For example, during interviews, when I was asked to elaborate on a time when I worked as a team to solve a problem, I was able to explain about my experience creating the end project for the course highlighting skills like teamwork, problem-solving solving and proactiveness due to the timescale. Additionally, I featured the course in my CV under a “professional development” section to highlight my commitment to continuous learning.
Furthermore, embrace diverse opportunities – whether a panel talk or course – to help build a robust profile. Lastly, don’t hesitate to apply for jobs where you don’t meet every requirement; you are more capable than you probably think and these can lead to unexpected outcomes.
“Embrace diverse opportunities- whether a panel talk or course - help build a robust profile.”
What advice would you give to others who would like to transition into tech?
My advice for transitioning into tech is to embrace your past experiences—they bring valuable skills that can enhance your tech career. Explore different areas within tech; you might discover a passion you didn’t expect. Lastly, don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. It’s often in those challenging moments that you experience the most growth and reward. Remember, the tech industry is vast and diverse, so take your time to find what excites you
Thank you Sabina!
Thank you to Sabina for sharing her insights on her career change into tech! Click here for more Code First Girls community stories and blogs! 🤩
Looking to upskill or learn about a new area of tech? Check out CFG Tech Tasters and Coding Kickstarter Classes!
