I Stopped Asking for Opportunities and Started Earning Them

Hi, I’m Jeet Sarkar, a Computer Science undergraduate at New Horizon College of Engineering, Bengaluru, passionate about problem solving, AI systems, and building products with real world impact.

Currently, I’m working as a Core AI Engineer Intern at Valantech Solutions, building AI powered solutions for Suljhaoo, a Retail OS for Indian MSMEs.

I Found the Missing Piece Early

I started following Striver Bhaiya in my second semester and became one of the early TUF+ subscribers after its launch.

Over time, takeUforward became an important part of my preparation:

• Followed Striver’s structured DSA sheets.

• Built consistency through regular practice.

• Strengthened my problem solving fundamentals.

• Prepared with more confidence for interviews.

I’ve seen takeUforward grow from a DSA learning resource into a complete placement preparation ecosystem.

I Didn't Put All My Focus on DSA

My preparation went beyond problem solving.

• Practised DSA consistently.

• Strengthened fundamentals through TUF+.

• Explored web development.

• Participated in hackathons.

• Learned AI through courses and practical projects.

• Applied what I learned by building my own projects.

I focused on building both problem solving ability and practical skills.

I Didn't Wait for an Opportunity to Find Me

My placement journey came with several rejections.

Then I came across Valantech Solutions and noticed security and architecture issues in their AI chatbot, including exposed API keys and inefficient token usage.

Instead of simply pointing them out, I:

• Identified the underlying issues.

• Proposed a scalable AI architecture.

• Focused on improving security, cost, and performance.

• Took the initiative to present my approach.

That initiative impressed the team and eventually led to an internship opportunity.

DSA Gave Me a Mindset, Not Just Skills

My biggest advice to juniors is simple:

Master problem solving first. AI tools can help you generate code, but your ability to think, design systems, understand problems, and create unique solutions is what makes you valuable.

Keep learning, keep building, and don't depend blindly on tools.

I'm Just Getting Started

Today, I’m working as a Core AI Engineer, building AI models and agentic systems for Suljhaoo and helping small businesses become more efficient through AI.

takeUforward has been a major part of this journey. It taught me not just DSA, but the confidence to keep learning, keep building, and keep trying. One day, I hope to create the same kind of impact that Striver Bhaiya has created for millions of students.

When DSA Met AI

• TUF+ → DSA & Problem Solving → Building Projects → Valantech Solutions → Core AI Engineer