Sure, fixing the family computer at an early age usually makes you turn into that “Hackerman” meme character, but other times it just helps you guide your career path to ultimately becoming a great software engineer. One such amazing software engineer we sat down to talk to is Codrin Alexandru.
Read all about it, folks, as Codrin answers our questions and talks with us about his favorite tech and how important values are in building both your personal and professional life.
Tell us a bit about yourself. How does Codrin usually spend his personal time?
I live a pretty satisfying life that is filled with the things I love and great people. Gaming, both video games and board games, forms a central part of my leisure hours, often shared with my significant other. I have also embarked on a journey in game development, initially with Unity and later transitioned to Unreal Engine due to some recent controversial decisions taken by Unity regarding its pricing model.
Like many, I share a deep-seated love for travel, which has taken me to various European countries this year and I have also explored the beauty of my home country, Romania. These adventures provide me with a broader perspective and cherished memories.
I also consider myself to be sociable and outgoing, hence I thrive on social interactions and connections. I frequently spend time with my close friends by watching movies, having gaming nights and often going on little adventures to new places.
In summary, my life is a harmonious composition of shared gaming experiences, the pursuit of game development, and the joy of travel, all while being surrounded by wonderful friends. It’s the everyday things that make it awesome.
A place I visited this year, called Billionaires Bay in Cap d’Antibes, France
What led you on your career path, to ultimately becoming a C++ Software Engineer?
My journey towards becoming a C++ Software Engineer was started by a childhood fascination. I distinctly recall the frustration of having to rely on others to fix our family’s computer, solely to enjoy uninterrupted gaming, of course. This initial spark evolved into a concrete goal and a genuine passion.
Even before high school, my curiosity was piqued by the inner workings of computers, leading me to wonder how they “think”. Throughout my high school years, I actively engaged in olympiads, where my enthusiasm for algorithms and problem-solving truly flourished. It was during this time that I first delved into the world of programming, and my initial exposure to algorithms was in C++. The language resonated with me, leaving an indelible impression. While I’ve explored other languages along the way, I always find myself gravitating back to C++, drawn by its allure and the sense of familiarity it offers.
What does a typical workday look like for you?
My typical workday kicks off the moment my morning coffee brews. The first order of business is checking and responding to emails and any pending direct messages that demand my attention or where I can provide assistance. Following a brief morning meeting to establish the day’s priorities, I delve into tackling the tasks at hand.
Somewhere in the middle, I take a break for lunch, sometimes opting for a smaller meal that I enjoy in the nearby park. As the day draws to a close, I ensure that all critical tasks are wrapped up before I sign off.
What is your favorite tech?
As I mentioned earlier, C++ consistently remains my go-to choice, both in my personal projects and at work. It’s safe to say that it’s my favorite tech.
What’s the best piece of tech-related media you’ve read/watched/listened to?
While selecting the absolute “best” is a challenge, a recent one that caught my attention is Sam Harris’ TED talk, “Can we build AI without losing control over it?”. It offers a high-level exploration of the immense potential of Artificial Intelligence and the critical need for responsible development. The talk underscores the importance of ethical considerations and safeguards in AI development and advocates for collaborative efforts to ensure responsible AI evolution. It has left a lasting impression on me, particularly in light of the recent advancements in AI.
Which is your favorite AscentCore value and why?
My favorite AscentCore value is “Integrity”. Integrity is the foundation upon which trust, credibility, and ethical decision-making are built. It’s about doing what’s right, even when no one is watching. In both my personal and professional life, I believe that integrity is the compass that guides us through challenges and helps us maintain our moral and ethical principles.
What is the most important lesson you’ve learned in your time here at AscentCore?
The most important lesson I have taken from my time at AscentCore is this: when you are truly determined and willing to find solutions, you will often find a way forward, no matter how tough the situation seems.
AscentCore celebrates its 5-year anniversary this year. Could you share your favorite moment from your time in the company? What are you most excited about for the years to come?
During my time at AscentCore, one of the highlights has been the opportunity to partake in the teambuilding events organized by the company. These, together with the occasional get-togethers stand out as a source of great fun and cherished memories.
The company’s interest in AI and other initiatives has piqued my interest. I am excited to see how these endeavors will unfold and the impact they will have in the coming years.
