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We Belong Here: Lessons from Unconventional Paths to Tech

19. Kristen Spencer: How Sampling ALL of the Careers Led Her to Software Engineering

Kristen Spencer likes to say that she was a professional career sampler. She has worked in many random industries and has been able to successfully incorporate the plethora of lessons she learned into her role today as a Senior Developer at a digital consultancy agency, TWG in Toronto. 

After having her first baby, Kristen started a Cool Mom blog on WordPress when she ultimately discovered her interest in design and code. She then took a few day-long workshops on how to make small changes in the browser only to discover a 9-week long boot camp called Canada Learning Code- the first of its kind in Canada. 

She went on to teach at HackerYou and credits working as an educator to finding the role she has today as a Senior-level developer. 

Today, Kristen and I dive deep into topics such as imposter syndrome, the importance of negotiation, and the art of framing your narrative. This episode is packed with tips and advice for those entering the tech space via an unconventional route. 

It is not one to miss! 

Resources:
Ladies Get Paid

Canada Learning Code

Follow on Twitter @_KristenSpencer

We Belong Here Podcast: 

Follow Lauren on Twitter @LoLoCoding 

WeBelongPodcast.com website

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