Many engineering graduates accept their first job offer simply because it feels like the safest option. But one Electronics and Communication Engineering (ECE) graduate from Hyderabad chose a far more uncertain path—one that required convincing his family, trusting his abilities and staying committed to a long-term goal.His decision eventually took him from a rejected Rs 4 LPA job offer to IIT Hyderabad and, finally, a Rs 30 lakh per annum (CTC) placement at Qualcomm.
When a secure job wasn’t the dream
The student completed his B.Tech in Electronics and Communication Engineering (ECE) from CVR College of Engineering, Hyderabad, in 2023.Soon after graduation, he received a Rs 4 LPA non-technical job offer from Sutherland. While many graduates would have considered it a good start, he knew it wasn’t aligned with his career aspirations.Instead, he wanted to prepare for the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) and pursue higher studies. However, his father was hesitant about the idea of taking a drop year and preferred that he accept the job.
One examination changed his family’s perspective
To demonstrate that he was capable of achieving something bigger, he appeared for the Post Graduate Engineering Common Entrance Test (PGCET) for state colleges.The result surprised everyone.He secured State Rank 13, proving that his confidence was backed by ability rather than wishful thinking. The impressive performance convinced his father to support his decision.With his family’s backing, he joined OHM Institute, Hyderabad, to prepare full-time for GATE.
From GATE success to IIT Hyderabad
Months of disciplined preparation paid off when he appeared for GATE 2024.He secured an All India Rank (AIR) of 1200, earning admission to the M.Tech programme in VLSI at IIT Hyderabad, one of India’s leading institutes for semiconductor and electronics research.The transition from a private engineering college to IIT Hyderabad gave him the opportunity to deepen his expertise in VLSI design while learning from experienced faculty and working on advanced technologies.
A dream placement at Qualcomm
After completing his M.Tech, the student secured a placement with Qualcomm, one of the world’s leading semiconductor and wireless technology companies.He received a Rs 30 lakh per annum (CTC) package, including a base salary of Rs 18 LPA—a remarkable leap from the Rs 4 LPA non-tech offer he had chosen not to accept after graduation.
A lesson for GATE aspirants
His journey highlights an important lesson for engineering students: success does not always come from taking the safest route.There may be moments when career decisions seem difficult, especially when family expectations and personal ambitions differ. However, consistent preparation, the courage to prove oneself and patience can transform opportunities.For thousands of GATE aspirants preparing for competitive examinations, his story serves as a reminder that believing in your preparation—and earning the trust of those around you—can sometimes change the course of an entire career.Disclaimer: This article is based on information shared publicly about the student’s academic and career journey. Package details refer to the reported Cost to Company (CTC), which may differ from in-hand salary.
