Meet the Writer: Aastha Sharma On Tech, Stand-up Comedy & Cats!

This story is a part of Hacker Noon's Meet the Writer series of interviews. The series is intended for tech professionals contributing the most insightful Hacker Noon stories to share more about their writing habits, ideas, and professional background (and maybe a hobby or two). If you too would like to start contributing to Hacker Noon, you can do so here.

So let’s start! Tell us a bit about yourself. For example, name, profession, and personal interests.

Hey everyone!

My name is Aastha Sharma, and I'm Lead Content Strategist at Techugo, a mobile app development company based in the USA, Canada & India. I'm a 26-year-old millennial whose Plan B is standup comedy. Seriously!

I don't code, but I absolutely adore technology. I love to analyze its impact on our day-to-day lives, and it never fails to fascinate me.

I am an environmental enthusiast, so I constantly try to integrate ways to lead a sustainable lifestyle. I love being outdoors, and around trees, so I participate in Tree Plantation Drives whenever I get an opportunity.

Umm...

Also, I’m a cat person!

Interesting! What was your latest Hackernoon Top story about?

My latest Hackernoon Top story was about improving app accessibility for people with disabilities, something that we at Techugo are very passionate about. But sadly, it is not the same everywhere.

After closely encountering the standard practices in app development, I realized that the industry isn't considering developing an understanding of inclusivity while creating apps. Since technology isn't a privilege, it's everyone's right; I felt a need to address the issue.

So through the blog, I tried to introduce the challenges that people with disabilities face while using mobile apps. I highlighted the current shortcomings that the industry needs to acknowledge. Finally, provided a list of solutions to a problem that can easily be solved by prioritizing design for everyone during the development process.

Do you usually write on similar topics? If not, what do you usually write about?

Yes, I usually write about app technology and its impact. But this particular one was extraordinary and close to my heart, and I am glad that it was published on Hacker Noon.

Great! What is your usual writing routine like (if you have one?)

Sadly I do not have a routine. But whenever I come across a topic that I feel incredibly passionate about, I research it thoroughly before writing. Sometimes I even spend days editing if I am not satisfied with the piece.

Being a writer in tech can be a challenge. It’s not often our main role, but an addition to another one. What is the biggest challenge you have when it comes to writing?

I love writing, but honestly, there are a few challenges that make it a tad bit difficult. There isn't enough time for starters, and of course, there is a constant struggle to come up with relevant ideas.

What is the next thing you hope to achieve in your career?

I hope to be able to continue creating interactive, relevant, and thought-provoking content. My team is currently working on few exciting projects in AI and AR; it is challenging, but it's all worth it!

Wow, that’s admirable. Now, something more casual: What is your guilty pleasure of choice?

Err…I am a sucker for Turkish dramas!

Do you have a non-tech-related hobby? If yes, what is it?

It's gardening, yoga, reading, and binge-watching true crime documentaries on Netflix.

What can the Hacker Noon community expect to read from you next?

I'm not 100% sure, but these days I am reading a lot about Metaverse. So that could be it, I guess.

Thanks for taking the time to join our “Meet the writer” series. It was a pleasure. Do you have any closing words?

Yes, I do. Firstly, thank you so much for this opportunity. I'm thrilled. The fact that my first story on Hacker Noon received such a great response from the community is mind-blowing.

Let's keep in touch on LinkedIn. And, if you want to hear more from me, you can subscribe to my blogs on Techugo.

See you soon!