Fairygodboss of Week: Laura Medalia
Laura Medalia didn't grow up knowing she wanted to be a woman in tech. Instead, she decided to take a leap of faith in college — and her love for computers turned into a full-time job AND a lifestyle brand. Now a software engineer by day and a social media maven at night, Laura Medalia (AKA @codergirl_) gave us some great insight into how self-love has helped fuel her success. She also shared how she overcame her imposter syndrome in a male-dominated industry, and spilled her no. 1 career tip.
Fairygodboss of the Week: Laura Medalia
Software Engineer and @codergirl_
New York, New York
Tell us a little about your career. How did you get to where you are now?
I took a leap of faith in college and decided to study as much computer science as I could before graduating. I got a job as a software engineer right after graduating and have been a tech addict since. Along the road, I created a social media account about life in tech and also founded a tee shirt company and blog for techies.
What is an accomplishment that you are proud of?
Creating my social media account. It took courage, work, and a lot of creativity and I am really proud of how it has developed.
What is a challenge that you've faced and overcome?
Feeling like an imposter. I think finding good mentors, problem solving techniques, preparing and also learning to believe in myself helped me conquer that to some extent. I am also proud of my feeling like I always have room to improve. I see it as a strength now. So, I've learned self love, too.
Who is YOUR Fairygodboss? and Why?
My mom!
What do you do when you're not working?
I work on my social media account, my tee company, and my blog. I build apps, I read about tech, I run, I spend time with friends and family, and I try to read, too.
If you could have dinner with one famous person—dead or alive—who would it be?
Einstein would be fun to chat with. Or Shakespeare.
Lightning Round: What is your karaoke song?
For the sake of all around me, I should say none. But maybe Livin' on a Prayer by Bon Jovi.
Lightning Round: What is your favorite movie?
Painted Veil is the first thing that comes to my mind right now, but I do not have one honestly. I think movies are beautiful for different reasons.
Lightning Round: What book would you bring with you on a desert island?
Oh my gosh! There is no book I could read forever, and I would not want to ruin one by reading it over and over. Maybe a book of poetry.
Lightning Round: What is your shopping vice? What would you buy if you won the lottery?
Clothes, clothes, clothes, shoes and bags.
What is the #1 career tip you'd like to share with other women who want to have successful careers like you?
I think find something you can be passionate about and work hard for it is important. And believe in yourself. Hard work and self-love.
Why do you love where you work?
I love solving problems with technology.
Fairygodboss is all about women helping other women - so each week, we celebrate a woman who made a difference in another woman’s career. Is there a woman who has made a difference in your career? Celebrate her and thank her by nominating her here.
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