Today, we introduce you to Cem Serin, our 38th Bondorian in the Spotlight. Since joining Bondora in 2022 as a software engineer, he’s enjoyed a journey of excellence, growth, and discovery.
As one of our software engineers in the Originations group, he and his team ensure all our borrower features and processes work seamlessly. Read more about what life is like as a Bondorian in the Spotlight:
The Bondorian Spotlight #38 — Cem Serin
👦Bondorian since October 2022
👨💻Role: Software Engineer
💸Team: Product Engineering: Origination
Cem’s journey at Bondora:
It’s been over a year since I joined Bondora, and it’s been an amazing journey so far! Looking back, our collective achievement in expanding to new markets and moving towards a modern tech stack has been truly inspiring 📈
Cem’s typical workday
I usually prefer coming to the office to catch up with colleagues. My day starts with a routine check of our monitoring tools to ensure there are no fires to put out. After this, I spend some time in the kitchen with a hot coffee and chatting with colleagues. We’ve been focusing on our engineering roadmap recently, which is something I enjoy tackling 😊
What’s the most rewarding part of your job?
Tackling complex technical challenges and seeing the positive impact on our system’s efficiency.
And what makes being a developer at Bondora awesome?
The company is committed to embracing a modern tech stack, which is very motivating for engineers. Working in an environment with easy-to-approach and helpful people is a huge plus 😊
How did you find your way into the world of programming? What has the experience been like so far?
Since high school, I’ve been intrigued by the ability to create something out of nothing. It’s been quite a journey so far, and I’m still enjoying every moment!
‘I can’t start programming before I …’
…have a steaming cup of freshly brewed coffee on my desk. Cliché, but essential ☕
Best meme that sums up being a developer?
What programming language is your favorite and why?
I’d go with C# since it’s the language I’ve used the most and feel most comfortable using.
What is your best investment advice?
Investing is a device that transfers money from the impatient to the patient. I’m not an expert, but I’d say focusing on long-term investments in the stock market could be beneficial 💼
Best cybersecurity/IT tip?
2FA! Also, please consider using a password manager 🔑
And now, let’s get to know Cem even better!
What are some of your hobbies? What do you like to do in your free time?
I like playing and studying chess ♟️ Additionally, I also enjoy watching indie movies and gaming. I’ve also been learning Estonian, which can be considered a hobby.
What are your favorite games to play?
I’ve spent quite some time on Baldur’s Gate 3 since its release, and it’s become one of my all-time favorites! I primarily enjoy playing RPG games, as I’m fascinated by the uniqueness of their lore.
Which game have you clocked the most hours with on Steam?
I’ve invested well over 3,000 hours in the Football Manager series over the years 🎮
What’s your favorite kind of music (to listen to while programming)?
I enjoy switching between different genres throughout the day since it keeps me engaged and energized. I like tuning into setlists from Cercle, then dive into death metal playlists 🤘
Do you have any pets?
My family in Istanbul currently has six cats, and I miss them dearly. We adopted Petit first, who is six years old now. He was later joined by Crunchy 🐱 They recently adopted four little fellas – hi, the more, the merrier! Meet Bihter, Behlul, Firdevs and Adnan!
What’s your favorite TV show/podcast?
I’ll go with ‘Firefly’, one of my all-time favorite sci-fi series! ‘Stuff You Missed In History Class’ is one of the podcasts I follow.
Bacon: yay or nay?
Yay 🥓
What superpower would you like to have and why?
I’d go with teleportation. I could attend any major sports event or music festival around the globe instantly. Imagine experiencing the World Cup, Glastonbury, and Primavera as a regular weekend plan!
What’s something that you want to do but scares you?
Wingsuit flying!
Thank you for following Cem on his Bondorian Spotlight journey! We’re happy to have had this chance to introduce Cem and give some insights into his world and hobbies.
Tune in again next month to read another episode of The Bondorian Spotlight to meet our 39th Bondorian!
P.S. If you’re interested in becoming the next Bondorian, head over to our Careers Page to check out our open positions.