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Spotlight

Employee Spotlight: Valerie Sui, Software Engineer

DataGrail, November 9, 2018

DataGrail’s Employee Spotlight series highlights the person behind the professional, digging deep and discovering what drives our team members.

This spotlight features Valerie Sui, a software engineer and App Academy graduate who has experience in data analytics. Valerie has a strong background in mathematics, and enjoys the outdoors whenever given the chance.

What is your role at DataGrail?

Software Engineer

Why did you choose to work in technology, and what led you to working at a startup?

It’s hard to avoid the tech industry and its allure as a bay area resident — who can resist free food? With that being said, my mission in life is to never stop exercising my mind. In order to achieve that mission, I’ve approached my life with the core values of openness and growth. Openness is attributed to being open to new ideas and opportunities which then fosters growth. Working at a startup embodies those values.

What excites you about joining the DataGrail team?

From an engineering perspective, what really excites me about joining DataGrail is the desire from the founding team to groom junior engineers into senior engineers.

The team at DataGrail is smart, driven, and most importantly, kind. They work on making clear objectives to build an outstanding product and company all while acknowledging that these achievements can’t be done without teamwork. It is truly a unique team and environment that I am grateful to be a part of.

What led you to pivot from data analytics to full stack development?

Going into development always seemed like it was a natural development in my career. As an analyst, I always enjoyed developing tools to streamline the analysis process and realized development was the next step in my career.

What is your favorite part of working in the San Francisco Bay Area?

Definitely not the traffic. I’d have to say that my favorite part is the diversity and melting pot of cultures that the Bay Area has to offer. As a bay area native, I never truly appreciated it until I left. Now, I will never take for granted that I can buy dim sum and burritos in the same plaza.

How does your passion for math play a role in your career in engineering and analytics?

For me, I find that the beauty of mathematics lies in the fact that its applications are boundless. Engineering and analysis are some of many ways that math can be applied.  

Where do you see yourself in 3 years?

Continuing my journey as an engineer at DataGrail.

What do you enjoy doing in your free time?

At the moment, sleeping and watching Terrace House. I’ve been an avid rock climber for over 6 years so a majority of my free time revolves around finding opportunities to go climb either indoors or outdoors. I also have a bucket list I’ve been meaning to check off that comprises of learning how to throw (pottery), dance, and play the violin.

Valerie hiking in Tuolomne County

Valerie hiking in Tuolomne County

 

Enjoy this piece? Check out our previous spotlight, featuring Liz Nguyen, Operations Manager!

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