I studied biology and ecology, then realised that I would need computer skills for my research, so I switched to computational biology. I became hooked on programming, tinkering and hacking. I finished my PhD in bioinformatics, specialising in small proteins in bacteria. However, I found this type of fundamental research a little too esoteric. I currently work at the UFZ (Umweltforschungszentrum Leipzig-Halle) on drought monitoring and related topics as a geoinformatician. The first CCC I attended was the 35C3, where I immediately felt at home. This time, I finally found the courage to participate myself.