A Bengaluru-based technology professional has captured the attention of social media users after sharing his journey from earning just ₹5,000 a month to securing a job package of ₹45 lakh per annum, despite not having a traditional bachelor’s degree.
The story, shared on Reddit, has resonated with aspiring professionals and sparked conversations about career growth, self-doubt and the evolving hiring landscape in the technology sector.
From diploma holder to high-paying tech role
The techie revealed that he completed Class 12 in commerce before pursuing a three-year Diploma in Computer Science in 2013.
His first job in the same year paid a modest salary of ₹5,000 per month. Over the next decade, he steadily switched roles and gained experience, gradually increasing his earnings.
A major breakthrough came in 2021 when his monthly salary crossed ₹1 lakh for the first time. Subsequent career moves helped him secure an income of over ₹1.8 lakh per month.
Despite facing a setback in 2025 after being laid off, he quickly recovered and secured a new position offering ₹45 lakh per annum, with an in-hand salary of around ₹2.7 lakh per month.
Success mixed with regret
While expressing satisfaction with his current earnings, the professional admitted to struggling with feelings of regret and imposter syndrome.
He said he often wondered whether he could have reached higher-paying roles earlier in his career if he had pursued a bachelor’s degree. For years, he believed that holding only a diploma limited his opportunities.
To address this concern, he enrolled in a Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA) programme through IGNOU earlier this year.
The techie also shared that his current net worth stands at around ₹70 lakh, including investments in mutual funds, provident fund savings and fixed deposits.
Social media applauds perseverance
The post attracted widespread attention, with many users praising his determination and resilience.
Several professionals sought advice on career growth without prestigious degrees, while others pointed to his journey as proof that skills, experience and persistence can often outweigh traditional educational pathways in the technology industry.