Taya Kutsyna – Spotlight

Although I’ve only recently started my apprenticeship, one of the most exciting things I’ve worked on so far is being part of the data team at my company. I’ve been learning tools such as SQL and dbt, and I’ve already had the opportunity to help the team work on real tickets that directly affect the business, including areas linked to revenue. Being able to contribute to real data work so early on has been really exciting. It’s helped me understand how data is used to support business decisions and shown me how the skills I learned at Ada are applied in a real professional environment.

I used to think that everyone working in tech already knew everything. However, now that I work with more senior people, I’ve realised that this isn’t true at all. Even experienced professionals are constantly learning, asking questions, and looking for new solutions and technologies. That’s shown me that tech is an industry where learning never stops, and it’s okay not to have all the answers, what matters is being curious and open to learning.

Starting a career in tech has changed my life by giving me confidence and independence much earlier than I expected. Instead of wondering what I might do in the future, I now know I have practical, in-demand skills and a clear career path. Working as an apprentice has helped me see that I can contribute to real projects, work with professionals, and solve real problems, not just in theory but in practice. It’s changed how I see myself; I’m more confident speaking up, asking questions, and taking responsibility for my work.

What I love most about my apprenticeship is the opportunity to learn on the job while being part of real teams and real projects. Instead of learning things only in theory, I get to apply what I study straight away and see how it works in a professional environment. Being trusted to contribute to real work has been incredibly motivating and has helped me build confidence in my abilities. I really enjoy seeing how small tasks connect to bigger projects and understanding how my work can make a real impact. The combination of learning, responsibility, and practical experience makes the apprenticeship both exciting and rewarding.

Ada has supported me in ways that go far beyond technical skills. One of the biggest things Ada gave me was confidence. As a young woman going into tech, you don’t see many girls in IT workplaces, and that can feel intimidating. Ada helped me realise that it is possible and that I belong in this industry just as much as anyone else. They also supported me with very practical, life-changing things. Ada helped me with corporate and administrative processes, including support around my visa and helping me re-sit my English exams, so I would have every possible chance to secure my apprenticeship. That support removed barriers that could have stopped me from progressing. I worked very hard to achieve this apprenticeship, but it was truly a two-way effort. Whenever I felt overwhelmed or unsure, Ada supported me, spoke on my behalf when needed, and made sure I didn’t feel alone in the process. Knowing that someone believed in me and advocated for me made a huge difference, and it’s a big reason I’m where I am today.

You don’t need to know everything to start I’ve learnt that asking questions, learning on the job, and improving step by step is completely normal in tech. What matters most is your attitude and willingness to learn.
Confidence is a skill you build.
Being in a professional tech environment has taught me how to speak up, share ideas, and trust my abilities, even when I’m the youngest person in the room or one of the few
women. Real-world skills matter as much as technical ones I’ve learnt how important communication, teamwork, and time management are. Writing code or working with systems is only part of the job, working well with people is just as important.

I stay in touch with the Ada alumni network mainly through online platforms like LinkedIn and through conversations with former students. Even when we’re not in constant contact, it’s reassuring to know that the network is there and that we share similar experiences.

Yes, the Ada alumni network has been very helpful to me professionally. I personally used the network when I was applying for my apprenticeship, and everyone I reached out to was really supportive. People were always willing to share their experiences, give advice, and make time to answer my questions.
Hearing directly from former Ada students who had already gone through the apprenticeship process helped me feel more confident and prepared. It made a big difference knowing that I could reach out for help and that people genuinely wanted to support me. I would definitely say it’s worth reaching out to the alumni network, it’s a really supportive community.