To all young folks graduating or about to graduate: Here are a few suggestions I wish someone had shared with me early on.
If you care to listen, these might help you navigate the road ahead:
1. Master the basics: Work ethic, taking responsibility, and being inclusive are the foundational skills that will set you apart. 2. Don’t stress too much about coding perfection: The future is about working with AI. You’ll likely use AI agents to write and refine your code focus on understanding how to leverage these tools effectively. 3. For aspiring PMs (Product Managers): Learn the depths of AI. It’s more than just using tools like ChatGPT; understand its potential, limitations, and applications. 4. Learn prompt engineering: It’s a skill that’s becoming increasingly valuable in the AI-driven workplace. 5. Find a mentor and network with experienced professionals: Senior folks have been where you are. Be mindful of the generational gap and be willing to adapt and learn from them. 6. Discover your purpose: Don’t work just for money. Find meaning in what you do it makes all the difference. 7. Balance your time: Spend quality moments with friends and family. Life is more than screens, systems, and gaming. 8. Prioritize your sleep: Sleep deprivation doesn’t show its impact immediately, but it can take a decade to catch up with you—don’t underestimate its importance.
I’ve worked with many interns, and I’ve noticed that these skills and habits—work ethic, finding purpose, or staying curious about emerging technologies like AI—are often overlooked. The good news? They can all be learned and developed. Take the time now to invest in yourself, and you’ll see the payoff in the long run.
And hey, don’t think I’m preaching! I know it might sound like it, but think of this as advice from someone who’s been around for sometime and made their share of mistakes. Take what resonates, leave the rest, and keep growing!
Wishing you all success in this exciting chapter of your life!
suggest ways to build network/find mentor especially when working and staying at different locations with limited options there
I would start by building a simple network map. Identify 5 to 6 people you already know who could either directly mentor you or connect you to others in their network. Reach out to these people, preferably online, and schedule virtual meetings. Be clear about your goals, but also focus on creating mutual value helping them with their challenges or sharing insights whenever possible.
For example, I connected with a few mentors through LinkedIn, and it has been very effective. We have monthly sessions that help me stay on track. Platforms like Topmate can also be useful, but you need to find the right people, as there’s a lot of noise to navigate.
Ultimately, the best way to grow your network is by consistently building value. When you contribute meaningfully to others, your network tends to grow organically.
Lastly, don’t underestimate the power of informal channels like Grapevine, keep asking for help, and opportunities will come your way.
Thanks for such detailed answer,really appreciated 🙏
The type of post I look for in GV, thanks for recommendations esp on PM part, what else PM can do to leverage the AI in better way and develop more tech closeness
I shared something around this few days ago. Please check this thread https://share.gvine.app/yRt9Jr98RAk3QojE6
I also realised these things after my first internship. Curiosity and ability to perform autonomously will take you far. Most people wait for things to be delegated to them (I did too).
Also you can't know everything, and feeling overwhelmed is only natural.
Remember Abra Ka dabra which means "I create as I speak" : Learn on the fly.
One thing I would like to mention here from my own experience(noob here though) that howsoever you might be busy with ur day job or deadlines etc take out some time from ur day even if like 15-20 min at least for some exercises could be even simple walk around ur locality or nearby park whichever feasible.And don't skip meals citing ofc work pressure these things slowly becomes habits and disrupt body routines .If not learnt to take out time for ur personal care amidst demanding schedule then in long term going these are going to break ur health physical as well as mental.
i agree with prompt engineering . It is really a actual skill.
i've recently landed an internship opportunity with a big company (300 employees), the stipend is 25k, which is decent, but I'm not sure if it's worth considering
Background about me: From a tier3 college, I'm in my 5th semester, and p...
The rise of AI, particularly AGI, has me thinking more about how to future-proof my career. I’ve been focusing on improving my adaptability, using projects we did in HeyCoach to prepare for these inevitable shifts.
Don't focus only on the compensation part only. Learning is very important. If you don't know how to have a mentor... Today you are getting paid for how well you code but now AI can code the best way..
Do in future it's not about how w...
