TechBoard Summer Spotlights: Julia Oran

TechTeam Talks
Aug 26, 2017 · 2 min read

TechTeam’s board members are spread out across the country (and abroad!) this summer, doing great work in Civic Tech and other related fields. We first caught up with Julia Oran, a fourth year computer science major and one of our two wonderful Chairwomen. Continue reading to learn more about what Julia has been up to, and what she’s learned about working in the Tech industry!

Q: What are you doing this summer?

A: I am working at Target (Corporate) in Minneapolis, Minnesota as a software engineering intern in Target Technology Services. I’ve worked with two teams this summer, one of which is responsible for logging into Target’s services (like target.com and Cartwheel).

Q: How does this relate to TechTeam and the broader world of Civic Tech? What do you like about it?

A: I have definitely gained a lot of experience in the tech world outside of the classroom and, specifically, in a large corporate setting. I have also learned more about team management, and the benefits of using an Agile framework. One of the best parts about working at Target is the growth mindset — people are constantly learning new skills or new languages and using them in their everyday work. Learning never ends! And I’m looking forward to bringing some of these concepts back to TechTeam.

Q: Do you have any golden nuggets of wisdom to share with our followers?

A: After working at a large corporation, I have seen the amazing potential of harnessing advanced technology and the minds of many motivated people. But I also learned that all great things started as small things — big problems can be broken down into small pieces. I think this philosophy is especially relevant to TechTeam as we look to tackle problems in our community and use technology to improve the lives of ordinary people.

Q: What are you most looking forward to with TechTeam starting back up in the fall?

A: Unfortunately, I will be studying abroad in Rome during Fall Quarter, but I look forward to meeting all the new members and seeing the fantastic projects when I return in January.


We can’t wait until Julia is back with us this winter!

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TechTeam Talks

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Welcome to the blog for University of Chicago’s TechTeam at the Institute of Politics. www.uchicagotechteam.com

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