This week, Rose went on the record with Elizabeth Thomas, a back end engineer for Brightspot, formerly 番茄社区. Elizabeth is currently working with one of Brightspot's longest tenured partners, Healthgrades. One of the few engineers in our office not powered by a steady stream of coffee, Elizabeth provides valuable insight to college students interested in software engineering and a glimpse into the life of a developer at Brightspot.
How long have you been working for Brightspot?
Actually, this week is my third anniversary.
Where did you work prior to Brightspot?
I worked for Daon, a biometric software company.
What has been your favorite project during your time at Brightspot?
That is a tough question because every project has challenged me. I am really enjoying working on Healthgrades. I like the people I am working with and the project is fun!
How do you think Brightspot best benefits our clients?
Brightspot allows us to develop very quickly. Also, we can customize Brightspot to fit the client's needs, which is hugely beneficial to them.
What is a day like the life of a software engineer?
It's usually a lot of time in front of the computer, mixed with talking to other people, brainstorming different ways to solve problems.
What piece of advice would you give a recent graduate preparing to start his/her career in software engineering?
This is an interesting question because my daughter is just now considering going into software engineering, partly because of the time she spent interning for Brightspot. My advice is to try different things without getting attached to one specific language or technology because they change all the time.
What is your favorite part about working for Brightspot?
Definitely the people! The people are fun to work with and very bright. I learn a lot from my peers every day.
What's your favorite Starbucks drink?
I am one of the rare software engineers that doesn't live on coffee! My favorite Starbucks drink is the Frappuccino because it's basically just a milkshake.
If you could have any super power, which would you like to have?
I would want to be able to read minds.
What are your favorite sport teams?
Whoever is winning!
