Alexandra Barka
Frontend engineer
Tuesday, 16 April 2024
Could you please introduce yourself?
I'm Alexandra, a Front-end Javascript Engineer with a background in computer science and expertise in UX design and web accessibility principles. Throughout my career, I've contributed to projects focusing on creating intuitive and engaging user interfaces using JavaScript and modern frameworks.
Beyond my professional work, I'm an active member of the developer community, sharing insights and educational content through articles on platforms like dev.to and my website. I'm passionate about personal growth and continuous learning, always eager to explore new technologies and concepts to enhance my skills.
In my free time, I enjoy binge-watching series, dancing salsa, travelling to new destinations, and capturing moments with my camera during strolls.
Whats your background?
I hold an MSc in Computer Engineering from the University of Crete, specializing in Information Systems and HCI.
Whats your current role?
I am currently working as a Web Engineer at spotify!
Why have you decided to learn to code?
Since i was 5 years old, i was always involved with computers. My dad wanted me to be comfortable around them since he thought it was the future. When I was 13 yo i learned my first computer language in school, it was Logo, and i found it fascinated. My teacher thought that i would have a great future as a computer scientist and suggested to get involved to the web pages of the school, where i learned HTML and CSS (with dreamwave...)
Do you think its important to learn to code?
YES. It opens a whole new window in thinking. It transforms the way you see the world working.
Do you feel the tech industry is male dominated? How can we encourage more women into the industry?
I have worked in many teams that i was the only woman in the room. In the university in the 150 people of my year women were maybeee 10-15. Family and school should encourage women to start a career in tech and i hope communities like this will show that it is possible.
Did you struggle being a woman in the tech industry yourself?
Sometimes yes, it feels like you have to prove yourself more to be in an equal place with the rest of the candidates in jobs.
Whats the most rewarding and most challenging parts of your tech career so far?
The most rewarding thing in my tech career is that it allowed me to meet so many smart people, to work in applications that people love and learn so many new things. The most challenging is interviewing, and the today's job market.