No IIT, NIT: Techie from Tier 3 College Lands Dream Job, Goes from Rs 16 Lakh to Rs 1.6 Crore in Less Than 4 Years

In a world where prestigious institutions like IITs and NITs often dominate the narrative around tech success, the story of Arjun Sharma (name changed for privacy), a graduate from a lesser-known tier 3 college, stands out as a beacon of inspiration. In just under four years, Arjun transformed his career, skyrocketing from a modest Rs 16 lakh per annum package to an astonishing Rs 1.6 crore, proving that talent, determination, and strategic planning can outweigh the absence of a brand-name degree.

The Humble Beginnings

Arjun graduated with a B.Tech in Computer Science from a private engineering college in a small town in India. The college, while accredited, lacked the prestige of top-tier institutions and offered limited campus placement opportunities. In 2021, Arjun landed his first job at a mid-sized IT firm with a starting salary of Rs 16 lakh per annum—a respectable figure for a tier 3 graduate but far from the crore-plus packages often associated with IITians.

Reflecting on his early days, Arjun recalls, “I knew I wasn’t starting from the same platform as my peers from elite colleges. But I also knew that the tech industry rewards skills and results, not just pedigrees.”

The Turning Point: Upskilling and Networking

Arjun’s journey to a Rs 1.6 crore package wasn’t built on luck—it was a calculated blend of upskilling, networking, and seizing opportunities. Here’s how he did it:

1. Relentless Skill Development

Arjun recognized early that the tech industry evolves rapidly, and staying relevant meant mastering in-demand skills. He dedicated evenings and weekends to learning advanced concepts like cloud computing, machine learning, and system design. Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and free resources like YouTube became his go-to learning hubs.

He also honed his coding skills through competitive programming on platforms like LeetCode and HackerRank. “I treated every problem as a mini-project,” Arjun shares. “It wasn’t just about solving it but understanding the underlying logic and optimizing my approach.”

2. Building a Strong Online Presence

Arjun understood the power of visibility in the digital age. He started contributing to open-source projects on GitHub, showcasing his coding prowess to potential employers. Additionally, he maintained an active LinkedIn profile, sharing insights on tech trends and his learning journey. This not only built his credibility but also caught the eye of recruiters from top-tier companies.

3. Strategic Job Switches

Rather than staying comfortable in his first job, Arjun strategically switched roles to accelerate his growth. After 18 months at his initial company, he moved to a product-based startup, where he gained hands-on experience with cutting-edge technologies and agile development. This role bumped his salary to Rs 40 lakh per annum.

Two years later, his skills and network led him to a FAANG company, where he secured a Rs 1.6 crore package in 2025, including base salary, bonuses, and stock options. “Each switch was about learning more, taking on bigger challenges, and positioning myself for the next leap,” he explains.

Overcoming Challenges

The path wasn’t without hurdles. Arjun faced rejections from companies that prioritized candidates from premier institutes. “I failed a few interviews early on because I lacked confidence,” he admits. “But each rejection taught me something new about preparation and resilience.”

He also battled imposter syndrome, especially when competing with peers from top colleges. To overcome this, Arjun focused on measurable achievements—like successful projects, certifications, and positive feedback from colleagues— which boosted his confidence and credibility.

Advice for Aspiring Techies

Arjun’s story is a testament to what’s possible with grit and strategy. Here’s his advice for students and professionals from tier 3 colleges aiming for similar success:

1. Focus on Fundamentals: Master core computer science concepts like data structures, algorithms, and system design. These are universal and highly valued.
2. Upskill Continuously: Stay updated with industry trends. Learn technologies like AI, cloud, or blockchain that are in demand.
3. Network Smartly: Connect with professionals on LinkedIn, attend tech meetups, and engage in online communities.
4. Build a Portfolio: Showcase your projects on GitHub or a personal website to stand out to recruiters.
5. Embrace Rejections: Use failures as learning opportunities to refine your skills and approach.

The Bigger Picture

Arjun’s journey highlights a shifting paradigm in the tech industry. While IITs and NITs continue to produce exceptional talent, companies are increasingly prioritizing skills and impact over institutional pedigree. With the rise of remote work and global opportunities, techies from non-elite backgrounds have more chances than ever to shine.

As Arjun puts it, “Your college doesn’t define you—your work does. If you’re willing to learn, adapt, and hustle, the sky’s the limit.”

Conclusion

From a tier 3 college to a Rs 1.6 crore job in under four years, Arjun’s story is a powerful reminder that determination and skill can break barriers. His success underscores the democratization of opportunities in tech, where talent and hard work can outshine even the most prestigious degrees. For every student or professional feeling limited by their college’s reputation, Arjun’s journey is proof that with the right mindset, you can land your dream job—no IIT or NIT required.