Natyra Ferati successfully graduated from the master’s degree programme in Informatics. She started her studies at the University of Klagenfurt as a Technology Scholarship holder. Today, she works in a successful Carinthian ICT company. In this interview, she talked with us about the ways she benefited from the scholarship programme as well as how to inspire and encourage women to pursue a career in IT.

You started your studies at AAU in the winter semester 2020/21. Why did you decide on your desired study program at AAU? Was it clear from the beginning what you wanted to study?

Following the completion of my bachelor’s degree, I realized I had a passion for software engineering and wanted to develop my skills further which would help me in this field in the future. I have been eager to develop effective ways of solving problems and leverage technology to impact people’s lives positively. While researching suitable programs, I discovered AAU’s Master’s program in Informatics with specialization in Software Engineering, which aligned with my previous degree and my interest in technology. This program provided the background I needed to achieve my career goals. Furthermore, the curriculum flexibility allowed me to choose from various offered courses that I found genuinely enjoyable. Additionally, the Technology Scholarships and the assistance in finding an internship were additional factors that convinced me to enroll at AAU.

You came to Klagenfurt as a Technology Scholarship holder. What was it like to be a scholarship holder? How did you benefit from the scholarship? What is the biggest advantage to be a Technology Scholarship holder?

Being a Technology Scholarship holder was a great advantage for me. The most significant benefit was financial support, which allowed me to maximize my potential as a student without worrying about financial burdens. The scholarship program covered my tuition fees, living expenses, and other costs associated with my studies, enabling me to focus solely on my education and research. Additionally, being a scholarship holder gave me access to various resources, including administrative support, networking opportunities, and German language courses, which enhanced my education experience. Through these opportunities, I was able to connect with other students and professionals in my field, expand my knowledge, and acquire valuable skills.

Through Technology Scholarships programme you met representatives of different companies in the local Information and Communication (ICT) sector and found an exciting study-related internship position. Now, you are working full-time in Carinthia at a thriving IT company – Dynatrace. Please tell us a little bit more about your successful career path and your current position and responsibilities.

Thanks to the Technology Scholarships program, I received assistance in finding an exciting study-related internship at iLogs as a Frontend Developer. During my time there, I gained practical experience in web and mobile development, which helped me further develop the skills I acquired at university. Afterward, I began my Master’s thesis project at Dynatrace in the position of Software Engineer. The objective of the thesis was to automate the process of design handoff in software development. Working on a thesis project in collaboration with Dynatrace was a great experience. I was impressed with the culture, work environment, and commitment to innovation, which motivated me to continue working there. In my current position, I am responsible for developing new features in the Dynatrace software product, which helps businesses operate more efficiently and effectively. I feel privileged to work in such an exciting and challenging environment, where I have the opportunity to learn and develop my skills continuously.

In your opinion, why should prospective internship providers consider supporting a programme like Technology Scholarships?

Firstly, offering internships provides companies access to talented and motivated students who may become valuable full-time employees. This can alleviate recruitment challenges and help companies identify potential long-term hires that fit their culture. Furthermore, the scholarship program is open to international students, which can enhance the diversity of a company’s workers and provide new perspectives and ideas.

According to the European Commission, only 19% of ICT specialists in the European Union are women. What do you think might be the reason for this? What should countries do to attract more women in ICT?

In my opinion, one of the reasons for the gender imbalance in ICT is that many women are unaware of the opportunities available to them. There is a need to spread the word and make these opportunities more visible. Often, people believe that ICT is only for men, but that is not true. This field is perceived as challenging for women and difficult to balance work and private life. This perception should be changed because women can do it too!

Encouraging women to explore technology from a young age can significantly reduce the gender imbalance in the field. Initiatives such as organizing events, internships, providing scholarships, and holding competitions with prizes for women can motivate them to explore opportunities in technology. Countries can inspire and encourage women to pursue careers in this field by creating opportunities for them to engage with technology and showcase their achievements. Furthermore, by highlighting success stories of women who have achieved leadership positions, countries can provide aspiring women with role models to look up to.

One of the goals of the Technology Scholarships programme is to foster the increase of highly qualified women as specialists in technical sciences. How would you recommend us to encourage more women to apply for a scholarship and follow your example?

I believe creating a network of  women who were scholarship holders would be an effective way to encourage and support women as prospective scholarship applicants. This network could be a valuable resource for women considering applying for technical scholarships, as it would provide them with guidance and support from those who have already succeeded. The former scholarship holders can share their stories of success, which can be truly inspiring for women who are thinking about pursuing careers in technical sciences.

You have been living, studying and working in Carinthia for more than two years now. What do you like most about your life here? Why is it recommendable to live here?

Carinthia is a beautiful region with plenty of opportunities for those seeking an enriching and enjoyable lifestyle. One of the things that stands out for me about Carinthia is its stunning natural surroundings, from the picturesque lakes to the breathtaking mountains. One of my favorite spots is Wörthersee lake, which is conveniently located near my house, where I often enjoy a picnic, watch the sunset, or take a walk. From a professional perspective, Carinthia is also an excellent place to study and work. There are several universities and research institutions that provide a large number of different programs. Additionally, there are many innovative and growing industries with plenty of job opportunities available.

Is there any funny or memorable experience you would like to share? No matter if it’s study- related or about everyday life. 

One of the most memorable experiences during my time in Carinthia was attending my graduation ceremony at the University of Klagenfurt. After years of hard work and dedication, it was an incredibly rewarding and emotional moment to walk across the stage and receive my degree in front of my family, friends, and professors. The experience was even more memorable because my parents were there to witness it. They are engineers, and I have always looked up to them as role models. It was a proud moment for me to share my accomplishment with them and have them see me officially become an engineer like them.

What are your future plans and goals?

My future goal is to advance in my career and eventually take on a leadership position in the tech industry. I believe that gaining more experience and knowledge in various areas of software engineering will be key to achieving this goal.

Wordrap:

My graduation day at AAU was…unforgettable

My job is…exciting and challenging

I am inspired by… innovation

Being a scholarship holder is…a great privilege

A tip for future scholarship holders in 3 words… seize every opportunity.

My life in Carinthia in 3 words… beautiful, enriching, opportunity-rich.

Keywords:  MA-INF