Fairygodboss of Week Laura Medalia

Fairygodboss of Week Laura Medalia Laura Medalia didnt 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 MedaliaSoftware Engineer and codergirl_New York, New YorkTell 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 compan y 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 youve 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, Ive learned self love, too.Who is YOUR Fairygodboss? and Why?My momWhat do you do when youre 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 persondead or alivewho 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 youd 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 womans career. Is there a woman who has made a difference in your career? Celebrate her and thank her by nominating her here.