05/12/2024 
Having first developed a passion for software development at the age of 12, Teo is deeply enthusiastic about experimenting with new technologies. Her curiosity and drive make her a valuable contributor to any team.
Colleagues describe her as hardworking, reliable, and always ready to provide guidance when needed.
“Teo strikes the perfect balance between pragmatism and team spirit, making her an invaluable presence,” a teammate says.
Teodora is also the life of the party; at every event she attends!
Outside work her creativity shines through her hobbies, but no spoilers here—read along to discover more about her, including her favorite social board game!
Bianca Cornaciu [BC]: What do you like most about software development and what led you to choose this career path?
Teodora Petric [TP]: My interest in software development began when I was about 12 years old. My dad, who had taught himself web development, gave me a book on HTML to get started. I began creating small websites for practice and quickly found myself enjoying the process, particularly the visual and creative aspects of it. Over time, I learned more and participated in competitions, which helped solidify my interest. It was clear to me early on that this was the path I wanted to pursue as a career. What I enjoy most about software development is the ability to create something tangible that can solve problems or bring ideas to life.
[BC]: What has been the most challenging project you’ve worked on so far in TechQuarter, and what made it rewarding?
[TP]: Each project comes with its own unique challenges, whether technical, collaborative, or time-related. As a developer, every new project brings opportunities to learn and grow, making it both demanding and fulfilling. What stands out to me is that each experience is rewarding in its own way, whether through the skills gained, the collaboration with the team, or the impact the project has on its users.
[BC]: What would a day in your life as a software developer look like?
[TP]: My day usually starts with a cup of coffee to get going, followed by checking emails and messages to catch up on any updates. From there, I dive into my tasks for the day, whether it’s writing code, troubleshooting issues, or collaborating with teammates. While it might not seem particularly remarkable, each day brings its own mix of challenges and achievements, which keeps things engaging.
[BC]: In the ever-evolving field of technology, how do you keep your skills sharp and stay up-to-date with industry trends?
[TP]: Staying current in the tech industry requires a mix of continuous learning and hands-on practice. I enjoy working on side projects, which help me experiment with new concepts in a practical way.
[BC]: Looking towards the future, which emerging web technologies or trends are you most excited about and potentially looking to work with?
What are your predictions in this area for the next 3-5 years?
[TP]: Over the next 3-5 years, I believe we’ll see more seamless integration of AI in web apps, especially in automation and user interaction. I think the future of web development will revolve around creating faster, more interactive, and more personalized experiences for users.
[BC]: What piece of advice would you give to someone aspiring to become a software developer?
[TP]: Being a software developer isn’t just about programming. While technical skills are important, other skills like problem-solving, communication, and working well with others play a big role in your daily work. It’s helpful to focus on learning these alongside coding to be successful in the field.
[BC]: Has any movie, book, or TV series sparked your interest lately?
[TP]: I’ve actually developed a bit of an obsession with Arcane Season 2—it’s such a great show! Aside from that, I’ve been focusing on spending time with friends, so I haven’t had much chance to watch other shows or do much reading lately.
[BC]: Is there an activity that helps you relax and unwind?
[TP]: I enjoy building with Legos or working on puzzles. When I was younger, my mom would buy me a small puzzle box every day to complete, and since then, it’s become my go-to activity for relaxing.
[BC]: Can you share a fact about yourself that not many people know?
[TP]: I’m generally an open book, but one thing that not many people know is that I’m a big fan of playing Dungeons & Dragons. I’ve been involved in it for a while, and I really enjoy the creativity and storytelling aspect of the game. It’s a great way to unwind and get lost in a completely different world with friends. Whether it’s coming up with unique characters or collaborating on epic adventures, it’s always a fun and engaging experience.
