Sebastian F.
Q: Who are you? Where are you from?
A: I’m Sebastian Franjou, a Core Software Engineer at Modulate. I grew up in Nantes, France, then came to Boston for college.
Q: What’s your background? What did you do before Modulate?
A: Being interested in both science and music from a young age, I naturally found myself gravitating towards music technology. I studied Computer Science and Music at MIT, and stayed there for my Master’s in Computer Science.
Q: Why are you joining Modulate?
A: When I interned here in my junior year of college, I noticed right away that the culture really resonated with me, especially the particular care put into ethical considerations, the focus on personal growth, and the overall warmth. It’s also a place where I can work with audio, so I gladly came back right after graduating!
Q: What’s your ideal work environment? Any special strategies you use to stay effective?
A: Writing my thesis in an office with no windows made me realize I really need natural lighting in my workspace. I also value being able to stand up and walk around, as that’s usually when I get my best ideas.
A work strategy I use is to set myself small achievable goals, and make sure to acknowledge when I complete them. Breaking down big tasks into smaller chunks makes them more manageable, and making measurable progress regularly keeps the morale high!
Q: Tell us about something you must have in any culture you join?
A: Respect. In terms of respecting people’s time (valuing their efforts, not overstepping too much on their time outside of work), but also in terms of being respectful of their opinions and ideas, and being open to change based on that input.
Q: Who are you outside of work?
A: A musician who enjoys music making in all its forms, from conducting to producing. I also love to cook, especially for my friends. Although I enjoy listening to podcasts and reading, nothing beats shared experiences, whether it’s a home-cooked meal, a multiplayer video game, or a concert.
Q: What’s something you’re great at that few people realize?
A: I really enjoy playing Tarot, an old french card game. I’m not actually that good at it, but I have gotten pretty good at explaining the rules, and I’m always happy to teach anyone!
Q: Leave us with a fun tidbit - a favorite joke, a story from your past, an obscure riddle, whatever you like!
A: Speaking from experience, even if invited, stay away from any event called “piccolo appreciation evening”.
