Team Q&A: Anna Laffoon – Software Development Intern

Our Software Development Intern Anna Laffoon embraces learning about the world around her, from how best to ensure the quality of our platform to her efforts to curb climate change. Join us in welcoming Anna to the Virtual Peaker team!

How did your previous life prepare you for Virtual Peaker?

Before joining Virtual Peaker, I studied English and Psychology in college and spent several years working in higher education. I never imagined myself going into a tech-related field, but I spent a lot of time learning how to learn; how to research, and how to approach questions in different ways. I think that was extremely beneficial for all aspects of my life, even if what I’m doing for work now is not related much to what I studied for in school.

To be honest, every day I feel like I’m starting from scratch and learning everything from the very beginning, but I enjoy the process and I think it’s good to challenge myself. I was starting to feel like an expert in what I did before I made the decision to switch careers, and going back to a point where I’m very much a novice is humbling and refreshing.

Tell us about your role at Virtual Peaker.

I’m a software development intern. I’m learning about full-stack Javascript development through hands-on contributions to the code – whether it’s bug fixes or front-end features – and through one-on-one mentoring.

How do you personally engage in sustainability efforts?

On a small scale, my household makes an effort to keep unused appliances and lights switched off, to use and reuse things before we throw them away, and to reduce our consumption of plastic and other materials that are harmful to the environment, opting for glass, metal, wood, etc. whenever we can.

We like to support local and state conservation efforts through volunteering, donating, word-of-mouth campaigning, and so on. Some favorite organizations include the Louisville Nature Center, Bernheim Arboretum, and Olmsted Parks Conservancy.

I also keep in touch with my representatives on issues regarding climate change, writing letters of appeal or signing petitions when there’s legislation that could affect the way we treat our planet.

What can you tell us about yourself?

I’m an avid reader – this year so far I’ve read around ten 700+ page books. I favor fantasy, horror, and weird fiction. The same applies to my taste in movies and TV shows. I’m not picky and I’ll watch something whether it’s campy, pretentious, or just plain bad. Additionally, I enjoy hiking in Kentucky’s state parks, painting, writing, and pretending I know how to cook. My husband and I have a tabby cat named Chai whom we rescued three years ago and we love to spoil her. I lived in Southeast Africa – in Malawi – until I was 18, and although I can no longer speak the language, it was a rare and formative experience that still shapes the way I think and interact with the world.