I Kept Trusting the Process, I Didn't Know What Was Coming

Hi, I’m Vivek Kumar, currently working as a Software Engineer 2 at PayPal.

I’ve been following Striver and takeUforward since my college days, starting with Striver’s YouTube videos and later making the TUF website my primary resource for DSA preparation.

The Plan I Trusted

The structured roadmaps, clear explanations, and curated problems helped me build a strong foundation in DSA.

Instead of constantly looking for new resources, I focused on following one path and understanding the concepts deeply.

I Built It Step by Step

My approach was simple:

• Follow the Striver DSA Sheet consistently.

• Focus on understanding concepts rather than memorising solutions.

• Practise problems regularly.

• Revise frequently.

• Keep improving even when progress felt slow.

Over time, this discipline improved both my problem solving skills and my confidence during interviews.

Stay With the Plan

My placement journey had its share of challenges, but I kept returning to the same roadmap.

The biggest lesson was that progress doesn't always feel obvious while you're making it. Staying consistent and trusting the process eventually makes a difference.

Don't Fear Slow Progress

• Don't keep switching between resources.

• Pick a structured roadmap and follow it sincerely.

• Focus on understanding, not memorisation.

• Revise the problems you've already solved.

• Keep practising even when progress feels slow.

• Trust the preparation you've put in.

The Next Chapter: PayPal

takeUforward remained a constant part of my preparation throughout my journey.

That consistency eventually helped me crack technical interviews and reach my goal of becoming a Software Engineer 2 at PayPal.