Federica and Claudia tell what changed after they met Vasu Jakkal
Last February in the Microsoft House in Milan, 15 bright young women talked with Vasu Jakkal, Microsoft's dynamic and charismatic Corporate Vice President for Security, Compliance, Identity & Privacy. Among them were our Coding Girls and some female students from Milan schools and universities in Stem disciplines, from different countries and cultures. On that occasion, there was a very intense exchange: the Microsoft manager shared the stories of the girls who are getting oriented, recalling the obstacle course a woman has to take to assert her choices. Vasu supported the young women by recalling her own story and demonstrating, with her open and empathetic attitude, that she is a true role model for those who have to make important life and career decisions [see news Vasu Jakkal, la forza della leadership empatica].
Perhaps the strongest impact concerned two undergraduates on the master's degree course in Cyber Risk, Strategy and Governance at Bocconi and Politecnico di Milano. They are Federica Stefanizzi and Claudia Pierpaoli, both 23 years old. Encouraged by the collaborative atmosphere of the meeting, and strengthened by a curriculum of studies highly appreciated by Microsoft, the two students proposed themselves to the company in the following weeks, receiving an offer for an internship in the Milan office!
Onelia Onorati collected their testimonies in a double interview.
What led you to choose this career?
Federica. After high school, I chose a university path in economics, mainly because I had not yet discovered a clear and defined passion. I felt I was good at science subjects, except for physics, which had created many difficulties for me in high school and, perhaps out of fear, had discouraged me from considering engineering. Economics seemed an interesting compromise: a lot of mathematics, which I liked, but also more qualitative subjects, such as law, in which I could not, however, express my full potential. Although I appreciated disciplines such as statistics and finance, I felt the lack of a more technical and concrete approach. This awareness led me, after my Bachelor's degree, to choose a different Master's degree, combining the skills offered by Bocconi and Politecnico di Milano in the Cybersecurity course. This path allowed me to rediscover an academic satisfaction that I had previously lacked.
Claudia. From a young age, I have always had a great curiosity for technology. Growing up in the US, American high school gave me the freedom to explore my passions, and so, in my senior year, I chose economics and computer science as electives. I didn't have a clear plan for the future, but these early experiences gave me a genuine interest that led me to choose a three-year degree in Economics, Management & Computer Science at Bocconi, to combine technical and managerial skills. During my three-year degree I had the opportunity to work as a pre-sales figure in a software company, an experience that opened up a world to me. I saw how my knowledge could be turned into real solutions for companies that are increasingly facing a market that requires digital transformation. Over time, I realised how crucial it is to deal with the risks of the digital world and how passionate I am about this field. Hence, the decision to specialise with a master's degree in Cyber Risk Strategy and Governance at Bocconi and Politecnico di Milano, to make my contribution in an essential field that will have an increasing impact on the world.
What do you remember about the meeting at Microsoft House?
Federica. The event was an incredible source of inspiration. Being part of a small group, which also included female high school students struggling with their choice of university, gave me the opportunity to reflect on how crucial it is to break down prejudices and support women in areas traditionally dominated by men. Seeing Ms. Jakkal talk to us in an authentic and accessible way was a turning point. Her example showed me that ambitious goals are not only achievable, but can become reality with determination and commitment.
Claudia. Meeting Vasu Jakkal was inspiring in every way. Listening to her talk about her career, the challenges she has faced and her vision for the future of cybersecurity made me reflect on how important it is to have female role models in leadership roles. I felt a strong connection to her story and her message of inclusiveness and resilience. This meeting not only exceeded my expectations, but gave me a new perspective on my career and the opportunities I can create, both for myself and for other women in the technology sector. It pushed me to believe even more in my abilities and to want to be an active part of change, bringing innovation and diversity to the world of cybersecurity.
What will you do at Microsoft?
Federica. From 1 February, I will be in charge of designing secure cloud solutions to support the needs of businesses and organisations, learning how to integrate advanced technology and security at scale. The decision to apply for Microsoft was not only dictated by the prestige of the company, but above all by the impact that meeting in February had on me. For the first time, I felt I was in a working environment that not only values female talent, but actively supports it. Coming home from that event, I had one certainty: not only did I want to be like the extraordinary woman I had met, but I also had the skills to succeed. When the interview opportunity came, I couldn't believe it and receiving the offer was a moment of enormous personal satisfaction.
Claudia. The future collaboration with Microsoft stemmed from my desire to combine technical expertise and direct interaction with customers, something I have already enjoyed during my first work experience during my three-year pre-sales degree. Starting in February, I will begin my internship supporting customers in the adoption and implementation of Microsoft solutions, providing technical advice, conducting product demos, and helping to optimise the use of technologies to meet their specific business needs. I chose Microsoft not only because of its prestige and growth opportunities, but also because of meeting Vasu Jakkal. That day, I really felt the inclusion aspect that characterises the company, and he convinced me to be part of an environment that actively values diversity and innovation.
Can you tell us about a project for the future?
Federica. Looking to the future, my wish is to grow professionally in a stimulating environment, working with proactive colleagues in close-knit teams. I would like to gain experience abroad, contributing to the development of innovative technologies and being an active part of the changing technological landscape. I dream of making a real mark in the cybersecurity sector, combining technical skills and sensitivity towards greater inclusion.
Claudia. My dream for the future is to work abroad, in an international context that allows me to grow professionally and broaden my perspectives. I aspire to become a role model who inspires other women to embark on a Stem path, showing them that it is possible to achieve great things in a sector dominated by technology. In particular, I would like to have a significant impact in the field of cybersecurity, helping to create a safer and more secure digital world, where security is accessible to all and threats are addressed with a spirit of innovation and expertise.
