Splunktern Spotlight: Izabela Golec

Our EMEA Splunktern program has grown steadily over the past few years, and this year we welcomed a record-breaking number of interns into our European offices! 

In this Splunktern Spotlight, we’re featuring Izabela Golec, a Software Development Intern based in our Krakow, Poland office. Although not always confident in her programming abilities, Izabela followed her instincts to study computer science, a decision that has really paid off! Joining us on her first-ever internship, Izabela has gone from strength to strength, soaking up as much learning as she can and grasping every opportunity presented to her. Read on to find out more about her story at Splunk.

Hi Izabela! Tell us about yourself!

Hi! I’m Izabela and I am completing my bachelor’s degree in Computer Science at the Jagiellonian University in Cracow. 

Before university, I wasn’t sure if studying computer science was a good choice. I’d always been drawn to mathematics and logical thinking, but never had much exposure to programming before. I took a chance and convinced myself of my abilities, and I’m happy to say, it’s paid off! 

Outside of work and study, I’m a member of the Jagiellonian University rowing crew. I’m also an animal lover and own one cat and a Saint Bernard dog. In my free time, I enjoy hanging out with friends and taking trips to the mountains. Watching the moon and the stars from time to time relaxes and inspires me the most.

Tell us about your internship at Splunk.

I’m a Software Engineer Intern on the Backend C++ team based in Cracow. At the beginning of my internship, I was assigned to a project concerning the handling of Tsidx files. I am very grateful that my manager entrusted me with this project, as it has given me the opportunity to develop my skills and see the effects of my work. I find it very motivating to work on such an important project. This internship has not only allowed me to develop my programming and technology skills but also allowed me to learn all about Splunk’s products (for example, how to use the Splunk Enterprise application). 

A very cool part of the internship has been the Splunktern Talk Series, where we had the opportunity to hear from Splunkers from different levels across the business. I really liked the variety of guest speakers, which included former interns, managers and executives. It was amazing to be able to ask them any question and talk freely and openly without any obstacles. 

What has your experience at Splunk been like? 

This has been my first ever internship! I am so happy that I have gotten to experience working for a company like Splunk, and to see how technology can help to solve the problems of large and small companies. The whole experience has been amazing for so many reasons. I’ve had the opportunity to develop my skills and meet new people, but also experience the unique and inspiring Splunk culture. I love coming to the office and participating in Splunk life.

What has been the most exciting part of your internship so far? Tell me about some of your achievements since joining Splunk.

I’ve thoroughly enjoyed meeting so many interesting people throughout my internship, and have learned so much from every interaction and every chat. Splunkers are very willing to help out and happy to give advice.

Another exciting part of my internship was recording a demo to present at the Platform Bi-Weekly Demos meeting. I had to sum up what I had done with the project so far and what the purpose and importance of my project was. It was nerve-wracking but gave me a lot of pride and satisfaction when I watched the finished recording.

What advice would you give to a woman considering a career in the tech industry? 

Confidence is key; believe in your unique perspective, and believe that you are able to face your goals. Seek help in learning and planning your career from people with experience - their advice can help you to develop your skills and teach you to manage your time and workload. When building your career, remember to take care of your physical and mental well-being. It can be easy to forget about yourself and get lost in the whirlwind of responsibilities - make sure that you maintain a healthy work-life balance.

What advice would you give to future Splunkterns?

Enjoy the learning journey! Your internship is the first step in your career so make the most of it by engaging with your work and peers. Remember that you don’t have to know everything and it’s ok to ask questions (including the ones that may seem silly!). Grasp this opportunity to develop on many levels!

Want to learn more about the Splunk Internship Program? Visit our LinkedIn, or check out open Splunktern opportunities.