In a job market obsessed with elite degrees, a 20-year-old college dropout shocked social media by claiming to have secured a remote position at a San Francisco startup with a salary $ 70 LPA.
“How I landed a 70 LPA job as a 20-year-old college dropout,” the Indian techie wrote in the post Reddit. In the next few lines, the person details step by step how they got to the professional level.
“I started freelancing when I was 16 because I didn’t really know what else to do. It started with random projects for low pay and bad clients, but over time I got better at growth and marketing.”
The person added, “Ended up working on 12+ projects and even contributed as a freelancer to the growth team at one of the largest companies. Never had a crazy degree or anything, just kept learning by doing things on the internet every day. Around that time, I also started posting consistently on X.”
However, when the OP noted that “a startup is hiring for a guy who makes approx. $70 LPA. “
“The company recently raised nearly $50 million san francisco To be honest, I didn’t think they would even consider me. I applied anyway. was rejected. “
Despite a string of rejections, the technician refused to budge and persisted with their application. Their determination eventually led to direct communication with the startup founders, paving the way for a remarkable turn of events.
“They set up an interview. We basically talked about execution, growth ideas, the psychology behind marketing, things I’d done before, etc., and a few days later I got the offer.”
The techie continued, “It still feels weird sometimes because a few years ago, I was just a kid sitting at home at 2 a.m. learning stuff from random internet rabbit holes. So grateful to the universe for everything: I love you.”
What does an individual do?
Many people ask what this person does. As this Reddit user asked, “Don’t mention what you actually do.” The OP responded, “I built AI distribution channels,” adding, “Basically think of clipping, but using AI models. It’s in high demand in the B2B space right now… every startup wants to be everywhere. For example: you see 100+ posts before or after a movie comes out, right? That’s all paid for. Likewise, I do it for B2B Tech startups do this. I have access to over 100 topic pages on LinkedIn and Instagram.”
The technologist continued, “I build infrastructure + distribution. This is one of the most unique roles. The demand is high, but there is so little to offer.”
How was the social media reaction?
One person wrote: “Why did you put in so much effort to get the job if you really didn’t believe they would consider you? Clearly, something made you believe in yourself. Congratulations.”
Another added, “What an inspiring journey man. Proof that skill + consistency + dedication can truly change your life. Most people are waiting for the ‘perfect degree’ or opportunity, but you create your own path. Respect being consistent in low-paying jobs and difficult clients – this phase teaches you the most. Wishing you more success in the future.”
A third person commented: “Is this a startup based in India, running for a US company?” OP wrote: “It’s an $80k per year job in the US. Work from home.”
(Disclaimer: This report is based on user-generated content on social media. HT.com has not independently verified these claims and does not endorse them.)
