– In high school, I enjoyed both math and science, as well as languages. I took advanced English and learned French. When I decided to do a bachelor's abroad, I had to choose between science or languages. My preference was Edinburgh, a city I knew partly because my dad studied there, says Amanda.
Initially focusing on English, she became interested in linguistics due to the technical aspects of language, such as syntax and pragmatics. Her science skills proved useful toward the end of her bachelor's studies.
– After years of theory, I wanted to focus on technical and practical subjects, leading to programming with an emphasis on language technology—a good mix of IT, science, and language.
Perfect combination
After five years in Scotland, she wanted to specialize in language technology and AI, leading to master’s studies in Paris.
– I considered an internship in France, but they require fluency in French. The main goal of an internship for me was a steady job lead. Wanting to work in Norway, I chose Chronos, a smaller AI company with good opportunities to connect with people professionally, she says.
When she was offered the chance to finish her master’s in Paris while working part-time for Chronos, she accepted. Right from the start, she had the opportunity to work as a developer for a major client on the LawAI project, which aims to provide quick and reliable answers to legal questions in labor law, GDPR, and compliance.
– LawAI will be my master’s case—it’s a perfect match!
Immediate impact of master's work
After a two-week introduction in Oslo, she's heading to France. Not being physically with other Chronos employees for six months doesn’t concern her.
– I’ve been welcomed warmly, and in the end, all components we develop will integrate into one solution. My linguistics background gives me a different set of skills compared to those with a general IT background. I'm knowledgeable in semantics and syntax, Amanda says with a smile.
The most satisfying part is seeing the immediate effect of her work as she completes her master’s thesis by June.
– It's truly theory in practice. I'm at Chronos to deliver quality work and learn. It’s a steep learning curve, which is very exciting!
