Growing up in India, I started my academic journey in finance, never expecting that one day I would build a career in technology. My transition into tech wasn’t planned—it was something that happened organically. While pursuing finance, I began helping my brother with his IT startup, assisting in various tasks that exposed me to the world of computing, problem-solving, and software development.
As I worked in the startup, I became fascinated by how technology could create solutions, automate processes, and drive real impact. My curiosity led me to start learning programming on my own, exploring coding tutorials, and taking online courses. The more I delved into it, the more I realized that tech wasn’t just an interest—it was something I wanted to pursue as my career.
Determined to make the switch, I pursued a MicroMasters in Data Science from UC San Diego, which gave me my first structured exposure to analytics, machine learning, and computational thinking. This experience solidified my passion for computing, and I knew I wanted to go further. So, the following year, I enrolled in an MSc in Computer Science at Queen Mary University of London, fully committing to a future in tech.
Alongside my Master’s, I secured an internship at Sky as a Data Scientist. Balancing a full-time degree with industry experience was challenging, but it helped me become more resilient, efficient, and confident in my skills. I wasn’t just learning concepts—I was applying them in a fast-paced, real-world environment.
The defining moment came when, while still in university, I landed an offer from Amazon. It was the validation of all the risks I had taken—the career switch, the long hours of studying, and the challenges of adapting to a new field. Today, at Amazon, I continue to learn, innovate, and push my boundaries every day.
For every woman out there wondering if it’s too late to switch careers or break into tech without a traditional background—I’m proof that it’s possible. Your past does not define your future. Curiosity, persistence, and a willingness to take risks will take you further than you ever imagined.
Happy International Women’s Day!
