Meet Team Venuetize: Archana Shrivastava

Archana Shrivastava is a senior software architect at Venuetize. She is responsible for designing features, like mobile wallets, in our platform.  We sat down with her to learn more about her career path, her passions, and what she likes about working at Venuetize.

Why do you do what you do? What led you to this career?

I have always been interested in learning about and working with new technology. I enjoy the challenge of trying to find solutions to complex problems. For example, I really like doing R&D work. As a software architect, I get many opportunities to do this kind of job.

I love trying out new things in life. Even though my high school did not offer any specific classes for computer science I found this subject fascinating and decided to try it out in college. I took some artificial intelligence (AI) and philosophy courses at the University of Pittsburgh, which furthered my interest in the subject and made it a possible career choice for me.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

There is a lot of satisfaction in building something new. It’s a proud moment for me when I’m able to see my ideas form into concrete features. Since we work closely with our clients, it’s also always an achievement when they are happy with my team’s hard work.

What are you passionate about outside of work?

Although I have many different hobbies and interests, I’m particularly passionate about cooking and traveling. I’ve always loved to try new recipes from around the world and I’m happy to take on the challenge of making food I’ve never cooked before. I also love to travel and have a strong desire to see and learn the history of the world. I often go on trips with my family to all sorts of countries and adventures.

What’s something very few people know about you?

I often have conversations with my dog, Simba. When we are just lounging around, I like to tell him about my day and work while he stares back with his round eyes and happy face. The simple but happy moments I experience on a daily basis with my dog are some of the best parts of my day.

Who’s your hero?

My dad is definitely my hero. I’ve always admired how hard my dad has worked to get to where he is right now. Despite being very busy with his business, he always found time for us. We have numerous memories of travels around the world and continue to make more even now. He taught me how to live a simple but happy life. My dad gave me the confidence that I could do whatever I put my mind to and that independence has helped me pursue my fulfilling career. It is also inspiring how dedicated my dad still is to his work, despite the challenges he’s faced. I hope to be the kind of parent that my dad is to my own children.