Campus Placements Didn't Work Out, But I Didn't Stop Trying

I'm Rayees Ali, a 2026 Computer Science graduate passionate about Java, backend development, and problem solving.

The Roadmap That Shaped My DSA Journey

takeUforward played an important role in my DSA preparation. I followed Striver's A2Z DSA Sheet, which helped me build strong fundamentals and approach problem solving in a structured way.

Having a clear roadmap made it easier to understand concepts, practise different types of problems, and gradually improve my problem solving skills and helped me place an internship at IT JobXS as a software engineer.

Think First, Then Find the Solution

My preparation strategy was simple: I always tried to think of a solution on my own before looking at the answer.

I made sure not to rush through problems just to complete them. Whenever I struggled with a concept, I revisited it and revised it regularly until I became more comfortable with it.

This helped me focus on understanding the logic rather than memorising solutions.

The Setback That Didn't Stop Me

I couldn't secure a job through campus placements, but I didn't let that become the end of my journey.

I stayed consistent with my preparation, focused on off campus opportunities, and continued working towards my goal. Eventually, with hard work, patience, I landed a good opportunity.

It reminded me that everyone's journey is different, and sometimes the right opportunity takes a little longer to come.

A Message to Those Still Preparing

If there's one thing I'd tell my juniors, it's to start DSA as early as possible.

• Don't get discouraged when concepts feel difficult initially.

• Give yourself time to understand the fundamentals.

• Stay consistent and revise topics regularly.

• Try solving problems independently before checking the solution.

• Be patient with your progress and trust your preparation.

You may not get the opportunity when you expect it, but that doesn't mean you should stop preparing for it.

A Journey Built on Patience and Faith

I'm grateful to Striver Bhai and takeUforward for helping me build my DSA fundamentals and giving my preparation the direction it needed.

Keep learning, keep improving, and most importantly, never give up on yourself.