Kandarp Shrivastava

What's your job about?

I am a full stack developer which means I work on both frontend (user interface/experience) and backend (database/logic) for an internal application used by the company. My job mainly involves adding new features to this application. It requires problem-solving to come up with solutions and then putting that into code so it can be used. It may be difficult for a student from a non-IT related degree to understand the technical coding part of my job, but they should relate to the logical steps and approach used to tackle these problems. Often this will involve working with others, we have to communicate our ideas and collaborate to build the solution.

What's your background?

I was born in India but then moved to Germany and lived there for two years. After that I moved to New Zealand when I was five and grew up there. After finishing high school I decided to go to Australian National University (ANU) in Canberra as it offered a double degree in both software engineering and finance. At this stage I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do so I thought a double degree would keep my options open and the disciplines complemented each other nicely.

It was the first time leaving my family so it was quite a big change for me. I had to start cooking food and take more responsibility! During my time at ANU, I did a few summer internships which helped me prepare for getting a job after university. I wasn’t sure if I wanted to stay in Canberra, but I applied for a graduate position at E&P and was successful!

Could someone with a different background do your job?

Yes, as long as they have some basic coding knowledge and an interest in the area. The most important skill my job requires is being able to work with other people in order to solve problems, and then being able to convert your solution into written code.

What's the coolest thing about your job?

The coolest thing about my job is being able to work with a great team to solve many different types of problems. I am often faced with new problems that have no set solution so it’s up to me to break things down and find an effective time-saving solution. I may get ideas from others in the team which gives me a new perspective to solve these problems. Some of my most satisfying moments have been after implementing a solution and being able to show the result on the application. Having others use something you have helped build is very rewarding.

What are the limitations of your job?

During busy periods near the release of new applications, I will often work a bit later to try to get all my tasks done. You also have to be prepared to face problems you can’t completely solve ―no matter how much effort you put in. This can get frustrating, but it is part of the job.

3 pieces of advice for yourself when you were a student...

• Don’t be afraid to try new things
• Prepare yourself for life after uni – if you’re interested in a particular company or job, find out more about what is involved in working there
• Try to enjoy whatever you’re doing!