My Journey from College to bagging Internship
Growing up, I often heard the saying, “Just do this, and everything will be set.” This advice followed me from the start of my 10th grade. People around me, even those not directly involved in my life, were quick to point out any failures. Despite this, I completed my 10th grade with good marks, only to face a new and most important challenge of choosing a stream for higher education.
With a strong interest in mathematics, I chose the math stream and secured a good rank in the JEE. This led to my admission into the renowned National Institute of Technology (NIT) in Electronics and Communication Engineering. The first two years of college were smooth, filled with last-minute exam preparations and fun with friends. However, the pre-final year brought serious challenges, especially the question, “What is your next step?”
As the internship season began at the end of the 5th semester, I felt unprepared. Unlike school exams, the corporate internship process requires professionalism, specific skills, and a different way of communicating. It was clear that cramming the night before wouldn’t work. Inspired by Eleanor Roosevelt’s words, “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams,” I started preparing seriously.
Although my background was in electronics, I found my interest in software development. I began learning other computer fundamentals as I was already aware of coding in a different language from 2nd year itself. Also, the companies started visiting our campus. The first company, JP Morgan Chase & Co., saw me clear the coding round but failed in the interview stage. This first failure was tough. The second company, Wells Fargo, took me to the final interview stage, but minor mistakes held me back. This pattern continued with several other companies.
The most frustrating part was seeing peers who did little but still secured internships, and then offered advice on how to succeed. Even those outside my field felt they could guide me. While it was tempting to feel negative, I chose to listen selectively, taking only the helpful advice and ignoring the rest. The constant criticism and whispers about my lack of success were stressful, but the thought of proving them wrong kept me going.
Finally, another well-known company visited our campus. With a bit of hope, I took their online assessment. It went well, and after a week, I was shortlisted for the interview along with eight others. The process included two rounds: technical and HR Interviews.
I researched the company, its culture, projects, mission, and vision. On the interview day, I was nervous but determined to avoid past mistakes. The technical interview began with my introduction and covered various questions. I did my best and was thrilled to learn that I advanced to the HR round.
With full confidence, I approached the HR interview and gave my best answers. Finally, the moment came. I was happy enough to receive an internship offer from the esteemed fintech company. This journey, marked by persistence and hard work, taught me valuable lessons and ended with a rewarding opportunity.