Bachelor of IT graduate Adya Sinha didn't waste any time after finishing her degree. Through the Summer of Tech programme, she secured an internship at Wellington-based DataTorque. Seven months on, she's progressed into a Junior AI Developer role, putting the skills she built at Whitireia and WelTec to work on real-world projects.
In her day-to-day role, Adya works with Python, SQL, and cloud platforms like Azure, using AI and data to solve practical problems. Alongside her development work, she tackles bug fixes and support tasks, keeping systems running smoothly. She's helped shape AI models, built bots to support automated testing, and created visuals in PowerBI.
DataTorque is a New Zealand technology company that builds software and systems to help governments around the world collect tax revenue that’s essential for funding public services. It's the kind of meaningful work Adya is glad she found, though IT wasn't always on her radar.
"I didn't start out with a huge passion for IT, but I was always curious about how things worked and I really liked numbers. When I discovered data and AI, I found building models and solving real problems with code really exciting. Over time that curiosity grew into a genuine interest. Now I love how practical and creative the work can be."
The culture at DataTorque has made the transition into industry even smoother.
"One of the things I love most is the supportive culture at DataTorque. Everyone is approachable and willing to help, which makes it a really positive place to learn and grow. The work is practical and meaningful, so I get to keep building my skills while contributing to real projects. And honestly, the free drinks fridge and snacks are definitely a bonus."
A New Country, A New Start
Getting to this point wasn't without its challenges. Adya moved to New Zealand from Navi Mumbai, India, straight after finishing Year 12. She juggled a new country, independent living, and part-time work, all while beginning her studies at Whitireia and WelTec. She describes the experience as "both challenging and rewarding."
"While the transition felt overwhelming at first, my first few classes really helped me settle in. The tutors and staff were welcoming and supportive, and the learning environment made it easier to adjust. Over time, I was able to build confidence, explore different areas, and choose a specialisation that suited my interests."
Building the Foundation
In the Bachelor of IT, students build a broad foundation across interaction design, security, data science, networking, and testing, before choosing a major. Adya specialised in Data Science, honing her skills in data mining, business intelligence, and data warehousing. In her final year, she completed a capstone project applying a range of techniques and technologies to a real business problem.
"For my capstone project, my team and I developed an Assignment Workload Tracker App (AWTA), a web-based application designed to help students track assignment due dates, organize their time more effectively, and identify workload overload. The app also gave students the option to request extensions, making it valuable for both students and tutors in managing assessments and deadlines. We built it using Next.js, React, and APIs. We deepened our understanding of full-stack development while navigating some complex technical problems."
Alongside her studies, Adya worked as a Technology Tutor at Matamoe Community Hub, helping students with Python, machine learning, game development, 3D printing, and artificial intelligence concepts. She was also involved in the Student Leadership Council, an experience she says helped her build confidence and develop important soft skills beyond the classroom.
From Classroom to Career
When it came to entering the workforce, Adya felt well-prepared.
"Studying at Whitireia and WelTec helped me build a strong foundation, not just in technical knowledge, but also in how to approach problems, communicate ideas, and adapt to new challenges. The practical style of learning was especially useful because it meant I could apply what I was learning in real situations. It also helped prepare me for interviews and gave me more confidence when stepping into the workplace."
Adya's Advice
"Be open to learning and willing to challenge yourself. The environment at Whitireia and WelTec supports growth, but you get the most out of it when you actively engage and take initiative. Don't be afraid to ask questions, try new things, and step outside your comfort zone - those experiences really help you develop both personally and professionally."
Study Information Technology with Whitireia and WelTec
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