Darya, our polyglot Belarusian QA Engineer, came to Malta to enjoy our sun and the sea and liked it so much that she relocated here permanently. Her preferred post-work wind-down is a beachside swim or an hour with a book, and while she likes the sweeter things in life, something savoury is her preferred start to the day. With an eight-year history in accounts, Darya shifted into the software development world with the same determination that guides the rest of her life, and she’s met every challenge since with open arms. Here’s Darya, in her own words.
What’s your earliest tech-related memory?
I remember when my older brother got his first computer, and he had a floppy disk with only one computer game. I was not allowed to play the game, but I was allowed to sit next to my brother and silently watch him play. It was pure magic!
Did you always know you wanted to work in tech?
Not really, but I was ready for any field. 
Describe your day-to-day routine, if you have one.
I prefer to wake up early as I do yoga every morning, after I make breakfast, it’s my favourite meal of the day. Then I get ready for work and go to the office as I prefer to work from the office rather than from home.
People who work with tech can be superstitious. Do you have a favourite computer superstition or ritual that probably doesn’t work – but you still do it anyway?
In fact, I can’t say that I’m really superstitious. But I find that sometimes fingers crossed can be helpful.
Who is your professional hero?
I don’t think I have a hero, but I admire Alan Turing. I have always admired people with extraordinary logic.
How did you end up working at Cleverbit?
I was about to change my job and was looking for something interesting and challenging at the same time. And at the job interview at Cleverbit I was very interested in the project and opportunities for professional growth. And here I am!
Is there a project that you’ve worked on at Cleverbit that really stood out to you for whatever reason?
I’ve been working only on one project, but I can say that even after almost 2 years of working on it I still find it challenging and I like it!
What’s the office culture like at Cleverbit?
I can say that I work in a positive office culture. Everyone is friendly and willing to help you if needed. It’s nice to get together with my colleagues for non-work activities (hiking, bowling, karaoke, etc.). This is the environment in which I like to work.
What profession other than your own would you like to attempt?
Definitely a dog trainer! I love dogs. I have spent most of my life with a dog by my side.
I have always tried to train my dogs and I think I’m good at it.
