An Indian software engineer has gone viral on social media after sharing his deeply personal journey from academic failures and health struggles to securing a high-paying technology job by the age of 25. His story, posted on Reddit under the title “My story: From a pure failure in college to here at 25”, has struck a chord with thousands across the country.
Years of setbacks and self-doubt
The engineer described himself as an introvert during school and said his difficulties began after Class 10. He scored 72 per cent in Class 12, failed to clear engineering entrance exams, and eventually enrolled in a BSc Mathematics programme at what he called a “worst possible college”. His struggles continued as he failed all subjects in his first semester.
The situation worsened during the Covid-19 pandemic, when he slipped into depression. He failed his final university examination in 2022, failed again in a re-exam in 2023, and was unsuccessful in cracking the NIT MCA entrance exam despite preparing for a year.
Health battles add to challenges
Alongside academic setbacks, he faced serious health issues. He revealed that he was diagnosed with hydronephrosis and chronic kidney disease, stemming from pre-existing conditions, which further affected his confidence and stability during those years.
Turning point through self-learning
Determined to become a software engineer, he began learning coding independently after college. His persistence led to a part-time role in 2023, followed by a full-time job with a ₹6 lakh annual package. However, he was laid off within five months.
“Definitely wasn’t happy with what I had,” he wrote, adding that he immediately resumed preparation and interviews.
Breakthrough at 25
His efforts finally paid off in October 2025, when he received offers from two mid-level startups. He joined one with a base salary of ₹21 lakh per annum along with ESOPs.
“Recently turned 25 and feel this is way better than I thought where I could end,” he wrote.
Internet reacts
The post received widespread praise, with users saying his story challenges India’s obsession with degrees and college pedigree, and highlights resilience, self-learning and skill-building as keys to success.