MIF alumnus T. Zaicev: “Working as a programmer is easier than studying” – AINA

VU Faculty of Mathematics and Informatics alumnus Tomas Zaicevas completed one of the most popular study programs – Program Systems. Now the guy works as a WEB senior programmer at the first Lithuanian unicorn called “Vinted”. T. Zaicev told about what he liked about studying at the university, winning the VU Talent evening and shared his future plans.

Tom, what motivated you to participate in the VU Talent Evening a few years ago? Did you expect to win?

He was motivated by the desire to show his abilities to the VU audience and to give meaning to the many years he spent playing the accordion. Did I expect to win – during registration and preparation, I didn’t, but after playing well, I really started to believe that I would be lucky to win.

What did you study at VU MIF? Why did you choose this particular program?

I studied Software Systems. I chose very simply: of all IT studies, this study program had the highest competitive score. I was guided by the presumption that this study program is chosen by the most talented. True, at that time Information Systems Engineering was only very recently emerging. If I had to apply again, I would consider between these two.

Were you satisfied with your studies?

Overall, yes. In retrospect, I think that in my case studying and studying VU Program systems was a good choice. But at the same time, I would change certain taught subjects and wish some teachers more enthusiasm in teaching them.

With what emotion do you remember your study years? What did you like most about studying?

A pleasant emotion. Many memories that make you happy and proud of yourself. Studies have given me a lot. At the same time, it was a difficult time. While still studying, I heard a saying that working as a programmer is easier than studying. There are nuances, but overall I agree with this statement. This is what I liked the most – studying was not easy, I had to “break through” and learn many things in a short period of time. A large part of the learning was self-directed learning. This is very necessary in the programmer’s daily life.

Are you working according to your education? What are your duties?

Yes. I’m a Senior WEB Developer at Vinted, working on Vinted’s website.

What future plans do you have? Maybe you intend to continue your studies?

I plan to continue improving in the field of WEB programming. I think that in the future I will want to try myself in the position of a team leader, but for now there is enough to do as a programmer. I don’t have specific plans to continue my studies, but I don’t rule out that I will get there someday. It is only likely that these would be slightly different studies, more focused on specific business challenges, such as project management or business management.