Joanna Szpunar

Meet Joanna, a Product Engineer who turned her curiosity at Herts into a thriving career in AI, technology and education.

Why Herts?

Joanna chose to study at Herts because of the breadth and flexibility of the International Business course. "The programme gave me a strong overview of different aspects of business and allowed me to explore my interests before deciding where I wanted to take my career"

Being able to study Japanese as part of her degree was also an important factor. She was drawn to the opportunity to study abroad and spent a year at Nanyang Technological University in Singapore. “That became one of the highlights of my degree, giving me the opportunity to experience a completely different cultural and academic environment.”

Coming to the UK from Poland was a “big step” for Joanna, but the supportive and welcoming community she found at Herts helped make that transition easier and allowed her to settle in.

Making the most of university

Some of her favourite memories at Herts came from beyond the classroom. She enjoyed spending time with her friends practising Japanese, as well as joining active sessions such as yoga and pilates. “It gave me a chance to step away from studying, try something different and meet people from across the university.”

Joanna found the adaptable careers support and resources particularly useful, as she could access advice on applications, interviews, CV guidance and career planning at her own pace. She also attended the University’s career fairs, where she spoke directly with employers and gained a better understanding of what organisations look for in graduates.

From experience to insight

Alongside her current role as a Product Engineer for Imperial College London – where she develops and improves tools, platforms and processes that support software development, as well as the adoption of AI across the University – Joanna is a Visiting Lecturer at Hertfordshire Business School and serves as Head of Mentoring UK at the Global Polish Student Society, where she enjoys volunteering to help support young people in their decisions to study abroad in the UK.

Joanna’s advice for students is to stay open to change and not be afraid to try new things. “Exploring something outside your original plan can help you discover interests or strengths you did not realise you had.” She says that university is a great time to explore different hobbies, get involved in activities beyond your course and learn more about yourself.