From First Impressions to Lasting Lessons

Author: Konstantina Voukelatou

Learning, Leading, and Growing

After my first days at Infosys, settling into the campus and getting to know fellow interns, as I described in my earlier article, the following weeks unfolded into an incredible journey of learning, growth, and discovery.

Inspiration in double: the project and the mentor

I had the privilege of working on a GenAI project using health data, guided by my mentor, a brilliant female engineer who was both technically sharp and deeply inspiring. She not only offered practical guidance but also shared her personal experiences of navigating a career in tech.

Her mentorship became a turning point for me. She showed me what leadership can look like in practice: empathetic, knowledgeable, and empowering. Under her guidance, I learned how to apply GenAI techniques responsibly, interpret results with care, and approach complex problems with confidence. Watching her thrive as a woman in a global company was a powerful reminder of why I want to pursue my own career in tech with determination and purpose.

Beyond the office walls

The internship wasn’t just about work. I had the opportunity to travel to Mysore, home to Infosys’ Global Education Centre, the largest corporate university in the world. Walking around the vast campus, attending a gala, wearing traditional Indian clothing, and exploring the city gave me a glimpse into India’s rich culture.

I also joined the Infosys InStep BizHacks, where teams competed to design solutions for real-world challenges. The first prize went to a project focused on increasing gender equity, a powerful reminder of how innovation and inclusivity go hand in hand. Another unforgettable highlight was meeting Mr. N. R. Narayana Murthy in person, celebrating 25 years of the InStep program and its legacy of global collaboration.

Lessons beyond textbooks

What surprised me most was how much I learned outside of the office. Traveling with fellow interns to different cities, sharing adventures, and experiencing local traditions together gave me a deeper appreciation for India’s diversity. More importantly, it built a strong sense of community among us, one that extended far beyond professional networking.

This experience also pushed me to grow personally. I became more confident in working across cultures, solving problems independently, and adapting to a fast-paced international environment. I learned patience, flexibility, and openness. Qualities I know will remain invaluable in whatever path I choose next.

Looking ahead

Now back in Stockholm, I’ve resumed my studies as a second-year Master’s student in Artificial Intelligence for Health. Yet the lessons I brought home from InStep are part of my everyday journey: approaching projects with more confidence, collaborating across cultures, and envisioning myself as part of the global tech community.

To any fellow woman in tech considering a program like this, my advice is simple: go for it without hesitation. InStep is more than an internship. It’s an opportunity to grow as a professional, expand your worldview, and discover that you do belong in the global conversation shaping the future of technology.