“I remember looking back and just appreciating everything that I'd accomplished in just 16 weeks:” Crystal Ly on Lattice’s Returnship Program

Crystal Ly recently became a full-time Software Engineer at Lattice after participating in our new Returnships program. Here, we talk to her about her journey to the Engineering team, what the Lattice returnship program was like, her favorite Slack channels, and so much more.

How did you get started in Software Engineering?

I originally started off as an Interior Design major — I know, a totally different field! But I’m naturally drawn to things where I can be creative. 

I eventually switched to Software Engineering because I was looking for something more technically challenging. Not to say the Interior Design space isn’t challenging, but I realized I could have the best of both worlds by going into Engineering and at the same time do creative work on the side. I love that I can be challenged and creative as a Software Engineer and I think that’s why I’m so drawn to doing Front End development!

Before joining Lattice, I had taken a 3.5 year break from my career to focus on raising my daughter (age 5) and son (age 2.5). One of the things I was looking for when I decided to continue my career was a company and role that would offer the opportunity and support for professionals like myself who have taken a step back from their career.

I joined as a Software Engineer in the first ever 16-week Returnship program at Lattice working in the Compensation Pod. A returnship is basically an internship, but for professionals who have experience and are continuing their career after taking a break. One of the main benefits of a returnship is working with a dedicated mentor who provides guidance and support to help develop the skill necessary to be able to contribute independently. 

What drew you to Lattice? 

When I first heard about Lattice, I was really impressed with the products, mission, and values. After I got to meet some of the Lattice team, I was even more impressed with the people and the culture. 

I believe that culture fit at a company is very important and I felt that Lattice's culture and values aligned with what I was looking for in my next career move. After meeting more Latticians, it solidified my decision that Lattice would be the right place for me!

What’s your favorite part of working here?

My favorite part of working at Lattice is getting to work with super smart, kind, empathetic and inspiring people who genuinely want to see each other succeed. Also, it's pretty exciting and rewarding to work on products that focus on making work meaningful. 

Not only am I constantly being challenged with new things and having the opportunity to apply those skills, but I get to have fun at the same time. Working at Lattice feels very natural, and I always look forward to the next day! 

Favorite Lattice Slack Channel and why?

#soc-no-context because I enjoy reading all the vague random quotes, as well as #soc-dogs-of-lattice! I don't have a dog but that's one of my dreams. I don't know the specific dog I want to get — I just know I want something super cute :) 

In #soc-dogs-of-lattice, I get to see how cute the dogs look in costumes and different outfits, and it also gives me ideas for dog names!

What’s something you’re passionate about outside of your job?

Outside of work, I love to work on any type of creative project. The most recent thing I've been doing is learning how to use different features in Adobe Illustrator. I love working with typography so recently I’ve been working on combining that with different graphic styles!

I've been designing mugs and shirts for my family — nothing fancy, but it's fun to see something I've designed on physical objects.

How do you think Lattice has helped you grow in your career?

The returnship gave me the right space and guidance I needed to get back into a comfortable work flow. The projects I got to work on and the support of the leadership team have played an instrumental role in helping me be successful throughout the program. I'm so grateful for the thoughtfulness that went into it.

Best day at work?

The last day of my returnship is a huge highlight for me because it was the end of such an intense (in a good way!) and rewarding program. I remember looking back and just appreciating everything that I'd accomplished in just 16 weeks! 

When I started the returnship, I had no idea of what challenges I would face and what I would accomplish. The last day of my returnship definitely felt like I had graduated :) 

Cheez-Its or Goldfish?

Definitely Goldfish. Not only are they super cute and have the right amount of addictive saltiness, but they also come in a variety of flavor options and colors! I'm all about the original flavor though.

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