In a time when tech layoffs are making headlines and job openings are shrinking, especially for fresh graduates and career returnees, standing out in the crowd has never been more crucial. But Ritvika Nagula, a senior software engineer at Microsoft Azure, believes it’s still possible—with the right strategy and mindset.
Ritvika didn’t just land one job after college—she received offers from Microsoft, Amazon, eBay, and another top firm. Her journey from NIT Raipur to Northeastern University and into the heart of Big Tech wasn’t just about luck. It was about being intentional, prepared, and proactive.
Resume First, Cover Letter Later
Her first piece of advice? Focus on your resume. “For software roles, the resume is everything,” she says. Ritvika made sure her CV wasn’t just a list—it was a story. She placed internships, co-op experiences, and even short-term projects right at the top, making it easy for recruiters to see her growth and skills at a glance.
Organize Projects Like a Pro
Instead of lumping everything together, Ritvika categorized her projects: academic, internship-based, and personal. Each entry included the tools and languages she used, showing not just what she built, but how she built it. That clarity made her resume stand out.
Passion Projects Matter
One of her favorite additions? A Facebook chatbot she built using the GoodReads API to fetch book summaries. It wasn’t part of any job or class—it was just something she wanted to try. And that curiosity spoke volumes. “Side projects show you’re not just learning—you’re applying,” she says.
GitHub Is Your Portfolio
Ritvika didn’t just mention her projects—she showcased them. Her GitHub profile was clean, organized, and full of real, working code. “Recruiters want to see what you’ve built. A good GitHub link is like handing them your portfolio,” she explains.
Don’t Just Apply—Reach Out
She didn’t rely solely on job portals. Ritvika also messaged hiring managers and team members directly. That personal touch helped her get noticed, earn referrals, and land interviews. “Cold applications are fine, but combine them with warm outreach,” she advises.
Use AI Wisely
While AI tools like code generators can boost productivity, Ritvika warns against leaning on them too heavily. “They’re great for support, but don’t skip the fundamentals,” she says. Knowing how to solve problems yourself is still key.
Experience That Adds Depth
Before joining Microsoft, Ritvika interned in machine learning at Trifacta and worked as a teaching assistant in discrete mathematics. These roles gave her both technical depth and academic credibility—something she says helped her stand out.
Ritvika’s story isn’t just inspiring—it’s practical. Her journey shows that with a smart resume, real projects, and a proactive approach, landing a top tech job is still within reach—even in a tough market.
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